Winifred Nakandi has officially announced her intention to run for Member of Parliament for Nakawa East as an independent candidate, citing her long-standing experience and dedication to the constituency.
Speaking about her candidacy, Nakandi said:
“I have been in this game for the last 10 years, and I have seen it all. I have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly, and I have come out stronger. I am ready to lead Nakawa East to a better future, and I am the only one who can do it because I have the experience, the vision, and the passion for this constituency.”
Nakandi had previously expressed interest in contesting for the Kampala Woman MP seat on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket but withdrew after citing irregularities in the party’s ticket allocation process.
The NUP had initially prepared Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro to run for the Nakawa East position, which is currently held by Eng. Ronald Balimwezo, who has announced his bid for Lord Mayor of Kampala. However, Mufumbiro is currently in jail, leaving NUP in a state of uncertainty over who should take up the mantle.
Within party circles, opinions are divided. Some prefer Mufumbiro’s twin brother, Kato, while others advocate for veteran journalist Kenneth Paul Kakande as the NUP flagbearer. This division has created a window of opportunity for Nakandi to position herself as a strong alternative to the party’s unsettled choices.
Nakandi added:
“I care about this constituency, and I will fight for you. I am committed to serving you, and I will work hard for you. I will not give up because I believe in you, and I believe in this constituency.”
With the NUP facing internal debates and its prepared candidate behind bars, Nakandi’s independent bid could reshape the race for Nakawa East, offering voters a clear alternative to the political uncertainty within the party.
