In a dramatic and decisive victory, Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola of the National Unity Platform (NUP) has been declared the winner of the Kawempe North parliamentary by-election, securing a landslide win with 17,764 votes. The election, held to fill the seat left vacant after the death of former MP Muhammad Ssegirinya, was marked by both celebration and controversy. While Nalukoola’s victory reaffirms NUP’s growing influence in urban areas, the election was overshadowed by reports of violence, intimidation, and attacks on journalists and opposition activists.

The announcement of the results took place at Makerere University, the official tallying center for the election. Nalukoola’s closest competitor, Namabi Faridah Kigongo of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), trailed far behind with 8,593 votes. Other candidates, including Hanifah Karadi Murerwa (Independent), Sadat Mukiibi (FDC), and Henry Mubiru Kasacca (DP), received significantly fewer votes, with Murerwa securing 381 votes, Mukiibi 239 votes, and Kasacca just 100 votes.

Nalukoola’s victory is seen as a continuation of NUP’s stronghold in Kampala, where the opposition party has consistently outperformed the ruling NRM. The party, led by Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has become a symbol of resistance and change for many Ugandans, particularly in urban centers. In his victory speech, Nalukoola paid tribute to the late Muhammad Ssegirinya, dedicating the win to his legacy and promising to fight for the rights of the people of Kawempe North.

“This victory is not just mine—it belongs to the people of Kawempe North and the late Hon. Ssegirinya, who sacrificed so much for this community. I will continue his legacy and stand up for the people against oppression and injustice,” Nalukoola declared. His words resonated with supporters who see him as a beacon of hope in a political landscape often dominated by fear and repression.

However, the election was not without its dark moments. Despite a largely peaceful voting process, reports of violence and intimidation by security forces cast a shadow over the day. Journalists covering the election faced harassment, beatings, and arrests, while opposition activists were targeted in what appeared to be a coordinated crackdown. Witnesses reported heavy deployment of police and military personnel in Kawempe North, particularly around polling stations and the tallying center at Makerere University.

Several NUP supporters were detained, and journalists attempting to document the events were either assaulted or had their equipment confiscated. Human rights groups have condemned these actions, calling them an attack on press freedom and democratic participation. Opposition figures have also criticized the intimidation tactics, arguing that the state security apparatus was attempting to suppress dissent and undermine the credibility of the electoral process.

The violence against journalists and activists has drawn widespread condemnation from both local and international observers. Many see it as a troubling sign of the shrinking space for free expression and political opposition in Uganda. The targeting of journalists, in particular, has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

Despite the heavy security presence, voter turnout was moderate. Out of 28,002 ballots issued, only 27,596 were valid, with 406 ballots rejected and 49 spoiled. The relatively low turnout may reflect the tense atmosphere surrounding the election, as well as the challenges faced by voters in accessing polling stations.

Returning Officer Henry Makabayi officially declared Nalukoola the winner, confirming that he had secured the highest number of votes in accordance with the Parliamentary Elections Act. The announcement was met with jubilation from NUP supporters, who see the victory as a step forward in their struggle for change.

Nalukoola’s win is significant not only for Kawempe North but also for the broader political landscape in Uganda. It underscores NUP’s growing influence and the ruling NRM’s declining popularity in urban areas. The victory also highlights the resilience of opposition supporters in the face of intimidation and violence.

As Nalukoola prepares to take office, the people of Kawempe North will be watching closely to see if he can deliver on his promises. His commitment to continuing Ssegirinya’s legacy and fighting for the rights of his constituents will be put to the test in the coming months and years.

The Kawempe North by-election has once again brought Uganda’s political tensions to the forefront. While Nalukoola’s victory is a cause for celebration for many, the reports of violence and intimidation serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the country’s democracy. As Uganda moves forward, the need for free and fair elections, respect for human rights, and an end to political violence has never been more urgent.

For now, the people of Kawempe North can celebrate a hard-fought victory. But the road ahead remains uncertain, and the struggle for justice and equality continues.