By Aggrey Baba
As the polling day for the Kawempe North by-election fast approaches, a determined Elias Nalukoola has declared that no one will rob them of their vote.
Speaking to constituents in Kyebando recently, Nalukoola, the candidate backed by the National Unity Platform (NUP), assured his supporters that their victory would not be stolen again.
“In the face of intimidation and interference from the regime and security forces since nomination day, we are not afraid,” Nalukoola said. “Our votes will be protected no matter what. This time, victory will be ours and no one will stand in our way.”
Nalukoola condemned the heavy-handed tactics of the security personnel, who he said have acted with impunity. He highlighted how several of his supporters have been arrested and even beaten during the campaign.
“The government claims to have brought peace, yet their actions speak otherwise. They say we live in a democracy, but they undermine it every day,” he said.
The candidate appealed to his NUP supporters to remain vigilant at polling stations, urging them not to leave until the Electoral Commission has finished counting the votes.
“We cannot afford to let our votes be stolen again,” Nalukoola warned.
With a sharp rebuke for his competitors, Nalukoola labeled them as non-players in the race. “This is not their time,” he said confidently.
Accompanying Nalukoola on the campaign trail were several prominent NUP leaders, including Mityana MP Francis Zaake, Medard Sseggona from Busiro East, Kyengera Mayor Mathias Walukaga, and NUP Treasurer Benjamin Katana, among others.
In a related development, two Members of Parliament, Muwada Nkunyingi (Kyadondo East) and Derrick Nyeko (Makindye East), were arrested during Nalukoola’s campaign rally in Kawempe on Monday. The MPs, along with four other NUP supporters, were released on bail the following day at Kanyanya Magistrates’ Court.
The arrests come amid growing concerns over the conduct of security personnel, with some lawmakers questioning the extent of their actions.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, called for clarification from the government on the involvement of military personnel in civilian matters, stressing that such actions could not be condoned.
In a response, State Minister for Industry David Bahati condemned the security operatives’ actions, stating that they were not sanctioned by the government. He confirmed that the Minister of Internal Affairs would soon provide a statement to address the escalating situation.
As the by-election draws nearer, it’s clear that tensions are mounting, but Nalukoola’s resolve remains unwavering. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
