OBADIAH T
Following the recently concluded Kawempe North by-election, various politicians and political analysts have shared their perspectives on the outcome and the events surrounding the electoral process. The election, held on Thursday, March 13, 2025, saw Counsel Nalukoola Elias Luyimbazi of the National Unity Platform (NUP) emerge victorious, defeating the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate Faridah Nambi.
Speaking to our reporter, Innocent Rubarondesa, the Rukungiri Municipal Councilor for Kinyasano Ward and the Publicity Secretary for the PFF movement, described the ruling NRM party as “bad losers” who have failed to concede defeat. He attributed their loss to a sympathy vote from Kawempe residents, many of whom he claimed had suffered government oppression. According to Rubarondesa, the excessive force used by security agencies in the region has pushed Ugandans to rise up and fight for their rights. He also criticized the government for allegedly misusing taxpayers’ money on voter bribery instead of investing in essential services such as healthcare and infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Muhumuza Gerald Tibasiima, an NRM member and aspirant for the Rukungiri District chairmanship, expressed concerns over the low voter turnout, noting that only 13% of registered voters cast their ballots. Tibasiima argued that the heavy security presence in the area discouraged many residents from voting. He urged the government to create a conducive electoral environment free from intimidation. Nonetheless, he remained optimistic about NRM’s ability to stabilize its political base and reclaim electoral seats in future contests.
Political analyst and seasoned journalist Perez Rumanzi from Ntungamo District voiced his disappointment over the treatment of journalists during the election. He condemned the harassment and reported assaults on members of the press, warning that such actions could escalate tensions ahead of the 2026 general elections. Rumanzi described the Kawempe by-election as a battle rather than a democratic exercise, claiming it reflected a trend of growing authoritarianism in the country.
Adding to the debate, Counsel Isaac Atukunda, a hopeful for the Rukungiri Municipality Member of Parliament seat, expressed concern over voter apathy. He reminded citizens that voting is a fundamental right and urged them to actively participate in future elections. Atukunda emphasized that failing to vote could result in the election of unqualified leaders, thereby affecting service delivery.
On the other hand, NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong has called for a forensic audit of the by-election, claiming that the party did not lose fairly. During a televised interview, Todwong suggested that both NRM and NUP should be investigated for alleged electoral malpractices. He further announced that the NRM’s Central Executive Committee is considering contesting the results in court, citing voter intimidation and other irregularities.
The election, which saw Nalukoola secure 17,764 votes against Nambi’s 8,593, was marked by heavy security deployment and incidents of violence, including the reported arrest and mistreatment of journalists by security personnel. With political tensions rising, analysts warn that the conduct of this election could set the tone for the broader political landscape leading up to the 2026 general elections.
