The National Unity Platform (NUP) has officially endorsed Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola as their candidate for the upcoming Kawempe North by-election, set for March 13.
Nalukoola emerged victorious after a highly competitive internal race, fending off challenges from nine other hopefuls. Among the contenders was Muhammad Lussa Luwemba, a former aide to the late Muhammad Ssegirinya, who resorted to significant personal changes—altering his name, religion, and invoking divine intervention—to secure a chance at the ticket.
The late Ssegirinya had represented NUP in the Kawempe North seat until his passing on January 9. His 2021 victory had made the constituency the largest opposition-held seat in Parliament.
With the by-election fast approaching, NUP remains the favorite to retain the seat. Notably, the party had each of its candidates sign a written pledge committing to refrain from running as independents if they were unsuccessful in securing the party’s flag.
