NUP Names Sultana Salim as Its Candidate for Kisoro Woman MP

(Kisoro) – The National Unity Platform (NUP) has officially endorsed Sultana Salim as its candidate for the Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament by-election, set to take place in November.

Sultana Salim, also known as Tana, was introduced as the party’s flag bearer by NUP President Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi, commonly known as Bobi Wine, during a press briefing at the party’s headquarters in Makerere Kavule. She received the party’s symbol, an umbrella, which marks her official candidacy for the election.

In the upcoming by-election, Salim will compete against Hon. Rose Kabagyeni, the candidate representing the National Resistance Movement (NRM), who was selected in last week’s primary elections. Kabagyeni secured her position after receiving 39,941 votes, defeating her nearest rival, Grace Akifeza Ngabirano, who garnered 39,197 votes. Other candidates in the NRM primary included Irene Muhirwe, who received 1,729 votes, and Fancy Brenda Nirere, with 1,593 votes, among others.

The Independent Electoral Commission has announced that nominations for the District Woman Representative to Parliament and other Local Government Councils will occur from October 30 to October 31, 2024. The nomination process will take place at the District Council Hall in Kisoro District, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, urged all aspiring candidates to familiarize themselves with the nomination requirements. He noted that nomination forms and guidelines are available at the Office of the District Election Administrator in Kisoro District.

During her endorsement, Sultana Salim expressed her commitment to being a voice for the voiceless in Kisoro. She acknowledged that the region has traditionally supported the NRM but emphasized that the government has not fulfilled its promises to the people. “I promise to represent the people of Kisoro wholeheartedly and to advocate for improved service delivery,” she stated.

Salim highlighted the potential of Kisoro as a tourism district, particularly known for its mountain gorillas, but noted that poor road conditions hinder the area’s development. She committed to working on improving the infrastructure to enhance the tourism sector.

The Kisoro Woman MP seat became vacant following the death of Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, who served as the State Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs. Salim’s candidacy marks a significant moment for NUP as it aims to increase its influence in the region.

The elections for the Kisoro Woman MP will be held on November 14, 2024, allowing the successfully nominated candidates a campaign period of 12 days.