The National Unity Platform has officially closed its doors to nominations for persons interested in vying for the post of Kawempe North MP.
The seat fell vacant following the death of Muhammed Ssegirinya, who succumbed to a long illness in January 2025. Following his demise, the Electoral Commission released a roadmap for the by-elections that will see locals from nine parishes go to the polls on March 13, 2025.
The process got fired up when the Election Management Committee of the largest opposition party in Parliament called for expression of interest. Party members didn’t disappoint.
By the close of last week, over 10 NUP members had visited the Makerere Kavule premises with the required paper work, but two were thrown out and asked to do necessary corrections.
By Tuesday this week, 10 people have been successfully picked to compete for the slot.
Lusswa Mohammad Luwemba, the former right-hand man of the late Muhammad Ssegirinya, has thrown his hat in the ring for the NUP ticket.
Luwemba, escorted by Makindye West MP Allan Ssewanyana, on Tuesday submitted his credentials before the NUP Electoral Committee just hours to the official closure. And he’s not alone nine other political hopefuls have also lined up for the coveted seat.
Among those in the race include; Umar Magala, Erias Nalukoola, Mathias Mulumba, Moses Nsereko, Fredrick Katika , Salim Sserunkuuma, Charles Rubagumya, Kenneth Ssekungu and Saulo Kulya Zziwa.
The NUP Election Management Committee says official flag bearer will be announced on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.
However, the Secretary General of the Party Lewis Rubongoya says first, the 10 must face off in a public debate, which will contribute 50% to the selection criteria. The other 50% is a ground survey to gauge their popularity.
