16 Candidates Vie for Kawempe North Seat as NUP and NRM Battle for Dominance

The political scene in Kawempe North is buzzing as 16 candidates come forward to fill the seat left by the late Muhammad Ssegirinya. With the by-election set for March 13, the competition is heating up, and both major political parties are preparing for a tough fight.

The National Unity Platform (NUP) and the National Resistance Movement (NRM) are the two main players in this election. NUP has put forward seven candidates, including Alex Lusswa Luwemba, who was Ssegirinya’s assistant. Other candidates from NUP include Umar Magala, Erias Luyimbazi Nalukoola, Mathias Mulumba, Salim Sserunkuma, Dr. Ismael Matovu, and Saulo Kulya Zziwa. The party aims to choose one candidate through internal elections to keep its hold on the constituency.

The NRM is also fielding seven candidates: Juliet Namale, Hanifah Karadi, Faridah Nnambi, George Mutumba Onesimas, Ali Jemba, Samuel Katabaazi Ssankala, and Samuel Kawooya Kigongo.

Besides these major parties, other groups are also joining the race. The Peoples Front for Freedom has put forward Muhamood Mutazindwa, while Ismail Musiitwa is running under the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

Residents of Kawempe North have outlined key issues for their next MP. Waste management remains a major concern due to unreliable rubbish collection. Effective leadership is also a priority, with calls for a dedicated and fearless representative. Job creation and skills training for young people are seen as essential for economic growth.

Additionally, improved health services and better access to medicines are widely demanded.

Political experts are sharing what qualities voters should look for in their next MP. Mwambutsya Ndebesa from Makerere University highlighted that Kawempe North deserves a leader who understands social issues and truly knows the challenges faced by residents. He believes this new leader must balance their duties with real engagement in community matters.

Sarah Birete, executive director at the Centre for Constitutional Governance (CCG), echoed this sentiment by urging voters to find candidates who can bring people together and represent their interests at a national level. She warned that aspiring politicians will face great pressure to live up to the legacy of a strong leader like Ssegirinya.

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