After 11 days of uncertainty and mounting pressure, the Electoral Commission’s official gazetting of Elias Nalukoola’s victory clears the path for his swearing-in. This move not only ends the political standoff but also highlights the growing concerns over military interference and the delayed gazetting process in Uganda’s electoral system.
The Electoral Commission has officially gazetted Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola as the Kawempe North Member of Parliament-elect, bringing an end to 11 days of tension and uncertainty within the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) camp. This publication paves the way for Nalukoola’s swearing-in after a contentious by-election victory.
Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola’s journey to Parliament is now official following the publication of his victory in the Uganda Gazette on March 24, 2025. This crucial step by the Electoral Commission confirms his win in the highly contested Kawempe North by-election and clears the way for his swearing-in.
Nalukoola, running under the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, secured 17,939 votes, comfortably defeating his closest rival, Faridah Nambi of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), who received 9,058 votes a revised figure from the initial 8,593.
The official gazette publication ends days of speculation and frustration within the NUP camp. The delay had raised concerns, with Nalukoola even threatening to storm the Uganda Printing and Publishing Corporation (UPPC) to demand answers regarding the holdup.
Speaking after the gazette’s release, Nalukoola expressed relief but also emphasized the need for transparency in the electoral process. “This is not just about me—it’s about ensuring that every Ugandan’s vote is respected without interference,” he stated.
The delay had fueled accusations of political interference, particularly after Nalukoola called for the withdrawal of Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers from Kawempe North. He alleged that the military presence during the by-election was meant to intimidate voters and disrupt the democratic process.
Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, confirmed that the gazetting marked the final stage in the by-election process. “The full results for the Kawempe North by-election have been published, officially concluding the electoral process,” he said.
Nalukoola’s swearing-in now appears imminent, marking a significant political shift in the constituency. His victory is not just a win for NUP but also a statement against what opposition leaders describe as increasing state interference in electoral affairs.
As the political dust settles, Nalukoola’s next challenge will be navigating the legislative landscape while maintaining his commitment to addressing the concerns of his constituents in Kawempe North.
