KAMPALA, UGANDA — The National Unity Platform (NUP)’s Erias Luyimbazi Nalukoola has been declared the winner of the Kawempe North by-election, securing 17,764 votes, while his closet contender, NRM’s Ms Faridah Nambi garnered 8,593 votes.
“Having added up the votes cast as recorded on each declaration form in accordance with section 72 of the Parliamentary Elections Act Cap 177, I declare Nalukoola who has who has obtained the highest number of votes to be the elected candidate for Kawempe North constituency,” the returning officer for Kampala district, Henry Makabayi declared.
The Kawempe North by-election has concluded amidst a storm of controversy, dominated by allegations of excessive security force conduct and concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Reports of violence against journalists and widespread criticism of the “militarization” of the election have cast a shadow over the proceedings.
Polling stations across Kawempe North saw varying voter turnout, with the dispatch of electoral materials proceeding under a heavy security presence. However, the focus quickly shifted from the act of voting itself to the actions of security personnel.
Members of Parliament publicly condemned the heavy-handed tactics employed, raising serious questions about the fairness of the election.
A particularly alarming aspect of the by-election has been the treatment of journalists.
Numerous reports surfaced detailing assaults and equipment seizures, leading to widespread condemnation from media organizations and human rights groups.
The Ugandan Parliament even held discussions regarding the excessive force used by security forces against journalists, underscoring the severity of the situation. Some media outlets were reported to have pulled out of covering the election due to the tense situations.
Social media platforms have played a crucial role in disseminating information, with videos and firsthand accounts circulating widely.
Public reaction has been varied, with many expressing outrage over the reported abuses. Concerns regarding the validity of the votes was also voiced by some candidates.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has been under intense scrutiny, with pressure mounting for an investigation into the conduct of its personnel.
The heavy presence of armed soldiers, combined with reports of unmarked “drone” vehicles, created an atmosphere of intimidation, particularly for media professionals and voters alike.
The Kawempe North by-election has raised significant concerns about the state of democracy and press freedom in Uganda.
The incidents of violence and intimidation have prompted calls for a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible.
As the dust settles, the implications of this by-election are likely to be debated for some time to come.
