Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola, the National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate, has won the Kawempe Division North parliamentary by-election in a landslide, securing 17,764 votes.
His victory follows the death of former MP Muhammad Ssegirinya, whose passing left the seat vacant.
The official results, declared by the Electoral Commission, showed that Nalukoola decisively defeated his closest challenger, Namabi Faridah Kigongo of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), who secured 8,593 votes.
The tallying and announcement of results took place at Makerere University, which served as the official tallying center for the election.
Seat Fell Vacant Following Ssegirinya’s Death
Security Forces Attack Journalists and Opposition Activists
Despite a largely peaceful voting process, the election was marred by reports of violence and intimidation by security forces.
Journalists covering the election faced harassment, beatings, and arrests, while opposition activists were targeted in what appeared to be a coordinated crackdown.
Witnesses reported that police and military personnel deployed heavily in Kawempe North, particularly around polling stations and Makerere University, where results were being tallied.
Several NUP supporters were detained, and journalists attempting to document the events were either assaulted or had their equipment confiscated.
Human rights groups have condemned the violence, calling it an attack on press freedom and democratic participation. Opposition figures also criticized the intimidation tactics, arguing that the state security apparatus was attempting to suppress dissent and undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
The results reaffirm NUP’s dominance in Kampala, where the opposition party has consistently outperformed the ruling NRM.
The party, led by Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine), continues to enjoy widespread support in urban areas.
In his victory speech, Luyimbazi Elias Nalukoola dedicated the win to the late Ssegirinya and vowed to fight for the rights of the people of Kawempe North.
“This victory is not just mine—it belongs to the people of Kawempe North and the late Hon. Ssegirinya, who sacrificed so much for this community. I will continue his legacy and stand up for the people against oppression and injustice,” Nalukoola declared.
Low Turnout
While the election was conducted under heavy security, voter turnout remained moderate.
Out of 28,002 ballots issued, only 27,596 were valid, with 406 ballots rejected and 49 ballots spoiled.
Returning Officer Henry Makabayi officially declared Nalukoola the winner, confirming that he had secured the highest number of votes in accordance with the Parliamentary Elections Act
Final Tally of Leading Candidates:
1.Luyimbazi Elias Nalukoola (NUP) – 17,764 votes
2.Namabi Faridah Kigongo (NRM) – 8,593 votes
3.Hanifah Karadi Murerwa (Independent) – 381 votes
4.Sadat Mukiibi (FDC) – 239 votes
5.Henry Mubiru Kasacca (DP) – 100 votes
