NRM to challenge Kawempe North By-election results in court after defeat to NUP

 

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) is gearing up for a legal battle after its candidate, Faridah Nambi, lost the Kawempe North by-election to National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola. Nalukoola secured a decisive victory with 17,764 votes, more than double Nambi's 8,593 votes 

The NRM alleges that election irregularities, including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation, may have influenced the outcome. Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua revealed that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is gathering information on the alleged irregularities, citing incidents of ballot papers being destroyed and NRM voters being threatened 

Despite the Electoral Commission upholding the election results, the NRM is preparing to challenge Nalukoola's victory in court. The opposition party's win has been seen as a reflection of the shifting political landscape in Kampala, where opposition parties, particularly NUP, are gaining ground

The by-election was marred by violence and electoral malpractice, with some media houses withdrawing their reporters for safety reasons. Observers are calling for an investigation into the allegations and greater transparency in future elections

As the NRM prepares for a legal battle, the outcome remains uncertain. However, the dispute highlights the growing political tensions ahead of future elections.

Election Results:

Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola (NUP):17,764 votes

Faridah Nambi (NRM): 8,593 votes

Hanifah Karadi Mulerwa (Independent): 381 votes

Engena Stanley (Independent): 22 votes

Henry Kasacca Mubiru (Democratic Party): 100 votes

Muhammad Luswa Luwemba (Independent): 240 votes

Sadat Mukiibi (Forum for Democratic Change): 239 votes