
10 NUP Hopefuls Set for Debate in Kawempe North Flagbearer Race
The National Unity Platform (NUP) has outlined its selection process for the party’s flagbearer in the upcoming Kawempe North by-election, revealing that the decision will be split between a public debate and a constituency survey.
According to NUP Secretary General Lewis Rubongoya, the 10 aspirants who expressed interest will engage in a public debate, an exercise that will account for 50% of the selection criteria.
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“We shall allow a few supporters for each candidate at the debate to avoid chaos,” Rubongoya stated.
The remaining 50% will be determined through a ground survey conducted by the party’s Election Management Committee to assess the candidates' popularity and suitability among voters in Kawempe North.
By the close of nominations on Friday, NUP had confirmed ten contenders for the party ticket.
These include Luwemba Lusswa Muhammad, a former aide to the late MP Muhammad Ssegirinya, lawyer Luyimbazi Nalukoola, Umar Magara, Saulo Kulya Zziwa, Serunkuuma Salim, also known as Mafu Mafu, Kakyika Fredrick, Dr. Charles Rubagumya, Eng. Ssenkungu Kenneth, Mathias Mulumba, and Moses Nsereko.
The Kawempe North parliamentary seat became vacant following the death of the former representative, Muhammad Ssegirinya, on January 9, 2025.
Meanwhile, the Kazo-Angola councillor position also fell vacant following the 2022 death of Yusuf Yakubu Kiggundu, who died in a road accident while on his way to campaign for an NUP candidate in Omoro District.
Mercy Walukamba, chairperson of the NUP Electoral Management Committee, also confirmed that two people had been cleared to contest for the councillor seat for Kazo-Angola Ward in Kawempe Division.
According to the Electoral Commission, candidates’ campaign meetings shall take place from Friday, February 28, until Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Voting will then take place on Thursday, March 13, 2025.
With the by-election fast approaching, the competition for NUP’s endorsement is expected to be intense, as the party seeks a strong candidate to retain the seat formerly held by Ssegirinya.