By Aggrey Baba
As they say, [A house divided against itself cannot stand], the National Unity Platform (NUP) prepares for the Kawempe North by-election, the party is walking a fine line to ensure unity while selecting its flagbearer.
The process will be a blend of a public debate and a ground survey, with each carrying equal weight in the final decision.
NUP’s SG, Lewis Rubongoya has revealed that the ten hopefuls vying for the party’s ticket will first face off in a public debate. This debate will contribute 50% to the final decision, allowing each candidate to present their vision while a controlled number of supporters cheer them on. “We shall allow a few supporters for each aspirant to maintain order,” Rubongoya noted.
The other 50% will be determined by a survey conducted by the party’s Election Management Committee. This exercise aims to gauge the popularity and suitability of the contenders among the people of Kawempe North.
By the close of nominations on tuesiday, ten candidates had officially thrown their hats into the ring. The list includes Luwemba Lusswa Muhammad, a former aide to the late MP Muhammad Ssegirinya, alongside lawyer Luyimbazi Nalukoola, Umar Magara, Saulo Kulya Zziwa, Serunkuuma Salim, also known as Mafu Mafu, Kakyika Fredrick, Dr. Charles Rubagumya, Eng. Ssenkungu Kenneth, Mathias Mulumba, and Moses Nsereko.
This by-election follows the passing of former MP Muhammad Ssegirinya on January 9, 2025. His departure left a gap in Kawempe North’s leadership, prompting a heated contest to fill his shoes.
Meanwhile, another vacancy exists in Kazo-Angola Ward, where the councillor seat fell empty after the tragic passing of Yusuf Yakubu Kiggundu in a road accident back in 2022. Mercy Walukamba, chairperson of NUP’s Election Management Committee, confirmed that two candidates had been cleared to contest for this position.
According to the Electoral Commission, campaigns will run from Friday, February 28, to Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Voters will then head to the polls on Thursday, March 13, 2025.
As the political heat rises, NUP faces a crucial test in selecting a candidate who can rally support and keep the party’s stronghold intact.
With competition stiff and expectations high, only time will tell who will carry the party’s flag into battle. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
