By Ben Musanje
Makindye Division has been thrown into political shock after the Electoral Commission made a decision that has left many people angry and confused.
On Monday, 5 January 2026, the Electoral Commission disqualified 11 candidates from the Makindye Division mayoral race. Among them was National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate John Bosco Luba Lusagala, together with 10 other candidates from different parties and independents. This move cleared the way for NRM’s Yasin Omari, who is now standing unopposed.
According to the Commission, the candidates were removed for failing to meet election rules. These included not getting the required 20 signatures from each parish, registering non-residents of Makindye, and other irregularities.
The decision has badly shaken NUP’s plans in Makindye. Lusagala had been handed the party flag after his bid to contest for Makindye East MP failed. That seat was instead given to Ali Nganda Kasirye Mulyanyama, the current Makindye Mayor.
Now, attention has turned to Mulyanyama himself. He is still facing questions about his academic papers and his change of name. Records show he changed his name in 2016 from Nganda Alan to Ali Kasirye Nganda Ali. Critics also question his claim of studying abroad, saying he only submitted UACE results to the Electoral Commission.
Reacting angrily, NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, spoke out on his X page. He accused President Museveni and Electoral Commission boss Simon Byabakama of targeting opposition candidates. Bobi Wine said whatever they are looking for, “they will definitely get,” and vowed that NUP will continue fighting until Uganda is free.
With Lusagala out and Omari left alone, Makindye politics has turned into a loud storm and the fight is far from over. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
