Tensions within the National Unity Platform (NUP) are rising regarding the parliamentary by-election for the Kawempe North seat, with some candidates voicing their dissatisfaction over the selection of the party’s flag bearer.
Among them is Muhammad Luwemba Luswa, who has announced his intention to run as an independent candidate with the support of Hon Mathias Mpuuga.
It is important to highlight that after assessing around ten candidates, the leadership of NUP opted for lawyer Elias Nalukoola Luyimbazi as their official candidate. While this choice was received positively, numerous voices, particularly from grassroots supporters, have expressed their displeasure with the decision.
Given that Ssegirinya was regarded as a grassroots leader, many anticipated that a candidate with a similar profile would be chosen. Attention was focused on Luwemba and Moses Nsereko, with Luwemba being perceived as the more fitting candidate due to his close ties with the late Ssegirinya.
Recent reports confirm that Luwemba will be contesting as an independent in this by-election. According to various sources, he will receive support from the Democratic Alliance, backed by Parliamentary Commissioner and Nyendo-Mukungwe MP Hon Mathias Mpuuga.
This coalition includes several influential politicians from the Buganda region, who are likely to provide logistical and strategic assistance to Luwemba. He stated that his primary aim is to continue his late boss’s focus on service delivery, development, and accountability.
“I have heard the voices of the people, and I cannot ignore them. My campaign will focus on authentic leadership that produces real results,” he expressed.
This choice has sparked some backlash from certain factions within the Makerere Kavule-based party, who argue that it could dilute the party’s strength. This concern arises because Luwemba has significant ground support due to his loyalty to Ssegirinya.
However, without the backing of the party, he faces a considerable hurdle, just as Nalukoola will likely struggle to persuade Kawempe North voters to select him over other contenders.
Fortunately for the party led by Bobi Wine, Moses Nsereko, another strong candidate in the area, has declared that he will not run as an independent. Nonetheless, he voiced his discontent regarding the selection process of the official candidate.
He believes it is evident that the party preferred to appoint a lawyer to fill the role of the late Anthony Wameli rather than a grassroots leader to succeed Ssegirinya.
The other contenders include NRM’s Faridah Nambi and FDC’s Sadat Mukiibi, known as Kalifah AgaNaga, who is a musician. Campaigns are scheduled to take place from February 28 to March 11, with the voting set for March 13.
