Makindye Ssabagabo Municipality witnessed tense scenes on Tuesday as elections for Youth and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) leaders were overshadowed by disputes between supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
The elections, held at Lubugumu UMEA Primary School, drew large crowds but were marked by disagreements over alleged last-minute changes to the voting process. Supporters of NUP accused election organizers of altering the agreed electoral procedures, saying voting was initially communicated to take place at the LC1 level but was instead conducted through LC2 representatives.
“We were informed that voting would be done at LC1 level, but this was suddenly changed. This affected transparency and caused confusion among voters,” said one NUP supporter at the venue.
Despite the disagreements, voting proceeded under tight supervision, beginning with the election of leaders representing persons with disabilities. The contest attracted two candidates, with NRM’s Margaret Nakacwa emerging victorious after polling 22 votes against her opponent’s 17.
Speaking after her win, Nakacwa pledged to champion the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities within the municipality.
“I will prioritise issues affecting persons with disabilities and ensure that their voices are heard and represented,” Nakacwa said.
The youth elections followed amid heightened security and keen interest from party supporters. Mukiibi Bilal won the male youth leadership position after securing more than 60 votes, defeating the NUP candidate who came second. Jubilant supporters lifted Bilal in celebration as he called for unity and inclusivity.
“This victory is for all the youth of Makindye Ssabagabo. I promise to serve everyone without discrimination,” Bilal said.
In the Female Youth category, Eva Nanteza secured a landslide victory after polling 58 votes against her rival Dorothy Nakanwagi’s 13. Addressing the press, Nanteza thanked the youth for their confidence in her leadership and pledged to advocate for opportunities for young women.
“I thank the youth for trusting me. I will work to ensure young women access opportunities that improve their livelihoods and participation in leadership,” Nanteza said.
Addressing supporters after the elections, the NRM Chairperson for Makindye Ssabagabo Municipality, Hajj Sulaiman Ssejjengo, called for calm and reconciliation, urging both winners and losers to accept the results in the interest of peace.
“Elections come and go, but peace must remain. I urge everyone to accept the outcomes and move forward together for the good of our municipality,” Ssejjengo said.
