‘I Won’t Let Kawempe North Go Unrepresented’ - Parliament to EC

Parliament has officially requested the Electoral Commission (EC) to organize a by-election for the Kawempe North parliamentary seat, following the death of Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya on January 9, 2025.

The request was conveyed in a January 15 letter by Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Adolf Mwesige, who emphasized the constitutional requirement to ensure the people of Kawempe North have representation in Parliament.

“Organise and conduct a by-election to fill the legislator vacuum so as the people of Kawempe North are represented in parliament. That is a constitutional mandate,” the letter read.

This action aligns with Article 81(2) of the 1995 Constitution, which mandates the Clerk to Parliament to notify the EC in writing within 10 days of a parliamentary seat falling vacant. According to the same article, a by-election must be conducted within 60 days unless the vacancy occurs within six months of a general election.

The Kawempe North by-election is expected to attract significant public attention, given the constituency's active engagement in national politics. The EC is now tasked with organizing a transparent and timely electoral process in adherence to constitutional requirements.

Muhammad Ssegirinya’s untimely passing has left a gap in the political landscape of Kawempe North. As Parliament fulfills its constitutional obligation, the focus shifts to the EC to deliver an efficient and credible election.

Further updates from the EC on the electoral timeline and procedures are anticipated in the coming days. The by-election will serve as an opportunity for the residents of Kawempe North to elect a new representative to continue advocating for their interests at the national level.

This development underscores the critical importance of constitutional compliance in maintaining democratic governance and ensuring effective representation in Uganda's Parliament