National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola has been declared the winner of the Kawempe North MP by-election after securing a decisive victory. Nalukoola garnered 17,764 votes, defeating his closest competitor, Faridah Kigongo Nambi of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), who managed 8,593 votes.
“This is not my victory, nor my party’s. It’s for the people of Kawempe and all Ugandans… We still have a long way to go.” – Elias Nalukoola Luyimbazi after being declared Kawempe North MP-elect.
The election, which took place in Kampala City’s Kawempe North constituency, saw a total of 406 rejected ballots and 49 spoilt votes. The results were officially announced by Returning Officer Makabayi Henry at the Makerere University School of Public Health Auditorium at 00:20 hrs on March 14, 2025.
Official Results for Kawempe North MP by-election:
- Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola (NUP) – 17,764 votes
- Faridah Kigongo Nambi (NRM) – 8,593 votes
- Muhammad Lusswa Luwemba (Independent) – 240 votes
- Hanifah Karadi Murerwa (Independent) – 381 votes
- Sadat Mukiibi (FDC) – 239 votes
- Henry Mubiru Kasacca (DP) – 100 votes
- Mahmood Mutazindwa (Independent) – 186 votes
- Edward Engena-Maitum (Independent) – 22 votes
- Ismail Musiitwa (PPP) – 39 votes
- Moses Nsereko (Independent) – 32 votes
How did Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola win the Kawempe North MP By-Election?
Despite the smooth voting process, the election was overshadowed by incidents of violence and harassment of journalists covering the event. Reports indicate that several media personnel were beaten up by security forces, raising concerns about press freedom and election transparency.
Eyewitnesses say that journalists who attempted to capture footage of alleged voter intimidation and security excesses were forcefully removed from polling stations, with some sustaining injuries. Media watchdog groups have since condemned the attacks, calling for an investigation and accountability for the perpetrators.
NUP Celebrates, NRM Calls for Review
Following the announcement, NUP supporters took to the streets of Kawempe North, celebrating Nalukoola’s victory as a continuation of their party’s stronghold in Kampala. Meanwhile, NRM officials have hinted at reviewing the election process, alleging irregularities and possible malpractices.
This by-election was highly contested after the seat fell vacant. With Nalukoola’s victory, NUP solidifies its position in the capital, further challenging President Yoweri Museveni’s ruling party ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The Electoral Commission has yet to comment on the reported violence, but human rights activists have urged authorities to uphold democratic principles and protect the media’s role in election coverage.
What’s Next after Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola becoming Kawempe North MP?
Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola is expected to be sworn in soon and will take his seat in Parliament, representing the people of Kawempe North. His immediate priorities are expected to include addressing local infrastructure challenges, youth unemployment, and governance reforms.
However, the controversy surrounding the election violence is likely to remain a major talking point in Uganda’s political landscape in the coming days.
