The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially nominated nine candidates for the upcoming by-election in Kawempe North Constituency, scheduled for March 13, 2025. This election follows the untimely death of the area’s former Member of Parliament, Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya, on January 9, 2025.
Who were the 9 Nominated Candidates for Kawempe North By-Election?
Over two days, the EC confirmed the candidacies of the following individuals:
- Murerwa Hanifa Karadi (Independent)
- Luwemba Lusswa Muhammed (Independent)
- Luyimbazi Elias Nalukoola (National Unity Platform – NUP)
- Mukiibi Sadat (Forum for Democratic Change – FDC)
- Nsereko Moses (Independent)
- Musiitwa Ismail (People’s Progressive Party – PPP)
- Mutazindwa Muhamood (Independent)
- Kasacca Henry Mubiru (Democratic Party – DP)
- Faridah Nambi Kigongo (National Resistance Movement – NRM)
Notably, Bishop Edward Stanley Engena-Maitum, the eldest son of former President Milton Obote, has also joined the race as an independent candidate.
Campaign Activities and Incidents
The campaign period has been marked by contrasting events. On Wednesday, NUP candidate Luyimbazi Elias Nalukoola faced violent disruptions when attempting to address supporters at Mbogo Mosque in Kawempe. Commandos from the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JAT) arrested Nalukoola and several supporters, detaining them briefly at Kawempe Police Station.
During the incident, journalist Miracle Ibrah sustained injuries and is currently hospitalized at Nsambya Hospital.
In contrast, NRM candidate Faridah Nambi Kigongo conducted a peaceful procession to the nomination venue on Thursday, culminating in a rally at Mbogo Mosque—the same location where Nalukoola was barred. This disparity has led to accusations of double standards by security forces.
How the death of Muhammad Ssegirinya led the story here
The by-election was necessitated by the death of Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya, who passed away on January 9, 2025, at Lubaga Hospital after a prolonged illness. Known for his grassroots activism and social media presence, Ssegirinya, often called “Mr. Update,” was a member of the National Unity Platform (NUP) and a vocal advocate for his constituents in Kawempe North.
His health reportedly deteriorated following a 17-month incarceration from September 2021 to early 2023.
Official Electoral Roadmap 2025
The EC has outlined the following key dates leading up to the by-election:
- January 27-31, 2025: Updating the National Voters’ Register
- February 28 – March 11, 2025: Official campaign period for candidates
- March 13, 2025: Polling day for the Kawempe North Constituency by-election
As the election date approaches, the EC urges all stakeholders to engage in peaceful and lawful campaign activities to ensure a fair electoral process.
