The Electoral Commission (EC) has outlined the roadmap for the upcoming Kawempe North MP by-election, which is set for March 13, 2025. This election became necessary after the passing of Muhammad Ssegirinya earlier this month. Since then, a good number of people—at least ten—have thrown their hats in the ring, hoping to take his place.
Some of the hopefuls include Moses Ali Jjemba, a member of the NRM from Mbogo Village; Elias Luyimbaazi Nalukoola, a well-known city lawyer running for NUP; and businessman Salim Serunkuuma, who has run before. Other hopefuls include Mathias Mulumba (alias Kikumi Kya Doola), the LC1 chairman of Corner Zone, and Onemus Mutumba. Tom Fisher Kasenge and Juliet Namale are also running under the NRM flag, while Umar Magala, Muhamood Mutazindwa, and Kulya Soul Zziwa are from NUP. Alex Luwemba, who was an aide to the late Ssegirinya, is also in the race.
During a press briefing at Tick Hotel in Kawempe on Monday, EC Chairperson Simon Byabakama announced that the electoral process would begin this week across the 197 polling stations in the area. He also provided a glimpse of the election timeline, including that candidate nominations will happen between February 26 and 27, 2025. After that, from February 27 to March 5, the candidates’ documents will be reviewed. Campaigns will run from February 28 to March 11, with voting taking place on March 13.
Byabakama reminded anyone interested in observing the election that they must apply for approval. He also encouraged proposals to make sure the election is free and fair, emphasizing that everyone involved in the process must stick to the electoral laws.
“The Commission further welcomes proposals and suggestions aimed at ensuring the conduct of free and fair electoral activities in Kawempe Divisional. The Conduct of Election involves many stakeholders. Adherence to the electoral laws and guidelines by all stakeholders during the entire electoral process is therefore very crucial.”
The EC chair also confirmed that Henry Makabai will oversee the election as the returning officer, with Rehema Nassuna as his assistant. He urged all candidates to stay calm and reminded them not to resort to bribing voters.
“We’re all stakeholders here, so let’s work together to make sure this by-election is peaceful, free, and fair,” he said.
Kawempe North consists of nine parishes: Kawempe I, Bwaise I, Kazo-Angola, Kawempe II, Kanyanya, Kyebando, Kikaaya, Komamboga, and Mpererwe. As of now, none of the 10 aspirants have been officially confirmed as candidates by their political parties.
