Bobi Wine Celebrates Huge Victory in Uganda By-election

Bobi Wine’s NUP Secures a Landslide Win

Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP) has once again demonstrated its dominance in Uganda’s political landscape, securing a decisive victory in the Kawempe North parliamentary by-election. The party’s candidate, Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola, emerged victorious, winning with a commanding 17,764 votes.

This by-election was triggered by the tragic passing of former Member of Parliament Muhammad Ssegirinya, a popular NUP leader who had championed opposition politics in the region. The Electoral Commission officially confirmed Nalukoola’s triumph after tallying votes at Makerere University, where the process was closely monitored by party agents and independent observers.

The victory solidifies NUP’s continued grip on Kampala, reaffirming Bobi Wine’s growing influence in Uganda’s urban political landscape. Despite numerous challenges, the opposition party has remained resilient, gaining significant traction among voters who seek political change.

By-election Follows Ssegirinya’s Death

The parliamentary seat in Kawempe North became vacant following the unfortunate demise of Muhammad Ssegirinya, a staunch opposition figure who was loved by his supporters. Ssegirinya had been instrumental in advocating for social justice and championing the rights of the underprivileged.

His passing left a leadership void in the constituency, prompting NUP to front Luyimbazi Elias Nalukoola as their candidate to continue Ssegirinya’s legacy. With unwavering support from Bobi Wine, the NUP campaign focused on grassroots mobilization and voter outreach.

Nalukoola’s campaign was centered around key issues affecting Kawempe North residents, including unemployment, poor healthcare, and police brutality. His message resonated with the electorate, ultimately leading to his landslide victory in the election.

Security Forces Intimidate Opposition and Journalists

While the by-election process largely remained peaceful, there were troubling reports of violence and intimidation targeting journalists and opposition activists. Witnesses described incidents where security personnel harassed, arrested, and assaulted individuals covering the election.

Journalists attempting to report from polling stations and the official tallying center at Makerere University faced interference, with some having their equipment confiscated. Human rights organizations have strongly condemned these actions, calling them direct attacks on press freedom and democracy.

Opposition leaders, including Bobi Wine, criticized the heavy-handedness of the security forces, arguing that it was a deliberate effort to undermine the electoral process. Many believe the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) is using state machinery to suppress opposition voices, especially in urban areas where NUP enjoys strong support.

Electoral Commission Declares Nalukoola Winner

Despite the challenges faced during the election, the Electoral Commission officially declared Luyimbazi Elias Nalukoola as the winner, confirming his overwhelming victory. The final tally placed him far ahead of his closest challenger, Namabi Faridah Kigongo of the NRM, who secured 8,593 votes.

Other candidates, including independent aspirant Hanifah Karadi Murerwa (381 votes), Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) candidate Sadat Mukiibi (239 votes), and Democratic Party (DP) candidate Henry Mubiru Kasacca (100 votes), trailed far behind.

The election saw moderate voter turnout, with 28,002 ballots issued and 27,596 counted as valid. Returning Officer Henry Makabayi announced the results, confirming Nalukoola’s win under the Parliamentary Elections Act.

Bobi Wine Hails NUP’s Continued Dominance

Following the election results, Bobi Wine, the leader of NUP, expressed his gratitude to the people of Kawempe North for their unwavering support. He described the victory as a clear message that Ugandans are ready for change and will not be intimidated by state oppression.

In his speech, Nalukoola also paid tribute to the late Ssegirinya, vowing to continue his legacy and fight for the people’s rights. “This victory is for the people of Kawempe North and our fallen brother Ssegirinya. His spirit lives on, and we will never stop fighting for justice, equality, and good governance,” Nalukoola declared.

Political analysts believe that this by-election result is a significant blow to the ruling NRM party, which has struggled to gain traction in Uganda’s urban centers. Kampala remains a stronghold for the opposition, and this victory further cements NUP’s position as a formidable political force.

NUP’s Growing Influence in Kampala

Bobi Wine’s NUP has steadily increased its influence in Uganda’s capital, winning multiple seats in past elections. The opposition party’s popularity is driven by widespread dissatisfaction with President Yoweri Museveni’s long rule and increasing concerns over governance issues.

The youth, in particular, have rallied behind NUP, seeing it as a party that represents their aspirations for change. With Uganda’s population predominantly young, NUP’s appeal continues to grow, making it a major political force to watch ahead of future elections.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including arrests, intimidation, and restrictions on political activities, Bobi Wine and NUP have maintained their momentum. The latest victory in Kawempe North adds to their string of successes, reinforcing their position as Uganda’s main opposition party.

What This Victory Means for Uganda’s Politics

NUP’s success in the by-election signals a shifting political landscape in Uganda. While the ruling NRM still maintains control over many regions, urban constituencies have increasingly turned to the opposition.

Political analysts suggest that this trend could have major implications for the next general elections. If NUP continues to gain ground, the political equation in Uganda could change significantly, challenging Museveni’s long-standing grip on power.

The ruling party now faces the difficult task of reclaiming lost support, especially in key urban areas. NRM’s failure to connect with young voters, coupled with growing economic hardships, has made opposition parties like NUP more appealing to the electorate.

The Way Forward for Bobi Wine and NUP

With this victory, Bobi Wine’s NUP has further solidified its influence in Uganda’s opposition politics. The party is expected to build on this momentum, strengthening its grassroots structures and preparing for future electoral contests.

Nalukoola’s win in Kawempe North serves as a reminder that Ugandans, particularly in urban areas, are eager for change. As NUP continues to expand its support base, it remains to be seen how the ruling NRM will respond to the growing opposition wave.

For now, Bobi Wine and his supporters celebrate yet another victory, a testament to their resilience and determination to challenge Uganda’s political status quo. The battle for Uganda’s future is far from over, and NUP’s latest success marks just another step in the ongoing political struggle.

Final Tally of Leading Candidates: