NBS Television will tonight host a highly anticipated parliamentary debate featuring Kampala Central’s top contenders, an event drawing national attention ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The race has intensified following the exit of long-serving legislator Muhammad Nsereko, who stepped aside to pursue a presidential run that was later halted after he failed to secure the required number of supporters’ signatures.
Nsereko’s departure has opened the race to a new generation of ambitious aspirants, making Kampala Central one of the most competitive battlegrounds in the upcoming polls.
Among the notable candidates are National Unity Platform Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya, Kampala Minister Minsa Kabanda of the National Resistance Movement, Aidah Nakuya of the Democratic Front, Abdallah Walangalira of the People’s Front for Freedom, businessman Abraham Luzzi, Uganda Boxing Federation president Moses Muhangi, and independent candidate Suzan Kushaba.
Luzzi has dominated public conversation with his digital-first campaign strategy and growing online presence.
Known for his humour and the viral catchphrase “Sarah is tall” in reference to his wife, Luzzi has dismissed traditional rallies as outdated. Launching his “Smart Manifesto,” he urged voters to engage with him online, saying digital campaigns will reduce election costs by up to 80 percent.
Luzzi’s proposals include reducing Parliament from 556 to 80 MPs, cutting Cabinet to 50 ministers appointed strictly on merit, abolishing by-elections, and enforcing strict qualifications for legislators, including a mandatory bachelor’s degree and minimum personal wealth benchmarks.
His anti-corruption platform includes capital punishment for gross financial loss, 24-hour courts, expedited corruption trials within two months, recovery of stolen funds with annual interest, and alternative sentencing options for minor offences.
NUP’s Rubongoya opened his campaign with a well-attended rally in Kamwokya, outlining a people-centred agenda aimed at improving service delivery.
He pledged reforms in taxation, education, healthcare, and urban infrastructure. Rubongoya urged Kampala residents to join what he called the #ProtestVote2026 movement.
NRM’s Minsa Kabanda has centred her campaign on uplifting urban communities, with a focus on market women and informal settlements. She has sought to counter claims that the ruling party has lost its grip on the capital, saying the NRM still has the capacity to deliver inclusive development.
Uganda Boxing Federation President Moses Muhangi has positioned himself as a champion for sports development.
Citing increased allowances for amateur boxers and improved payments for referees and officials under his leadership, Muhangi said he now seeks to advocate for sports from inside Parliament.
Independent candidate Suzan Kushaba, who quit the NRM after being denied the party ticket, has leaned into grassroots mobilisation.
She says her campaign will focus on empowerment for women, the ghetto community, and unemployed youth.
As the debate airs tonight, analysts expect sharp exchanges and clearer policy contrasts among the contenders. With just months left to the 2026 general elections, Kampala Central remains one of the most closely watched parliamentary races in Uganda.
