As the 2026 elections approach, Bukomansimbi North constituency in Bukomansimbi district is set for a heated battle as five candidates seek to challenge the incumbent NUP's Christine Nandagire Ndiwalana.
Each contender brings a unique political background and strategy to unseat Ndiwalana, setting the stage for a closely watched electoral contest.
Among the contenders is Fred Nyenje Kayiira, the current Bukomansimbi district chairperson and a member of NUP, leads the pack of challengers.
His local governance experience and party affiliation position him as a strong contender in the upcoming elections.
Nyenje who have just spent three years in local government says this has helped him build grounds but has also helped him to know the needs of the people of Bukomansimbi.
“Bukomansimbi North is one of the constituencies which are still struggling for access to clean water. People fetching water from dams is dangerous because they are not protected and they have claimed to many lives. Infrastructure development, health and education are still a very big problem ,"Kayiira says.
“In local government we address all these issues but as you know we just write and send letters but it takes a long time to think about a letter from Bukomansimbi LCV but they can take an action if it is an MP who writes.”
Ruth Katushabe, a former MP for Bukomansimbi North under NRM's banner, seeks to reclaim her seat after being defeated by Ndiwalana in the 2021 elections.
With a history in legislative affairs and local support, Katushabe aims to capitalize on her past experience and constituency connections.
Hajji Idd Lubyaayi Kisiki, formerly with NRM and now aligned with NUP, brings a significant twist to the electoral dynamics.
His recent defection to NUP and endorsement by local party leaders, including Bukomansimbi South's Kayemba Ssolo and party president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, has bolstered his candidacy, causing concern for the incumbent Ndiwalana.
Muhammad Kateregga, former Bukomansimbi district chairperson under JEEMA, brings a diverse political background and a base of supporters who align with his party's principles.
His previous electoral performance demonstrates his appeal to a segment of the constituency.
Kateregga spent 10 years as Bukomansimbi district chairperson which gave him leadership experience despite his lost 2021 elections.
“I came in leadership when Bukomansimbi has just became an independent district. During my time, I did a lot for Bukomansimbi which I think they have not forgotten yet."
Salim Kiseka, representing NRM, rounds up the field of contenders.
With the backing of his party and local networks, Kiseka aims to capitalize on his party's established presence in the constituency.
In the 2021 elections, Bukomansimbi North witnessed a competitive race with seven candidates vying for the parliamentary seat.
Ndiwalana emerged victorious with 9,617 votes, followed by Katushabe with 6,599 votes.
Lubyaayi Kisiki, running as an independent after losing in the NRM primaries, secured 4,238 votes, while Kateregga garnered 3,076 votes under JEEMA's banner.
Among others were DP's Yasin Kawooya who garnered 251 votes, Racheal Namakula (Independent) garnered 187 votes and Yusufu Ssebuggwawo independent garnered 47 votes.
The upcoming elections are poised to be fiercely ,with each candidate strategizing to address key issues such as infrastructure development, education, and healthcare.
However, challenges persist, particularly regarding the condition of school buildings and infrastructure inadequacies, as highlighted by incumbent Ndiwalana amidst her concerns over recent political developments and health challenges.
With a year or so until the elections, Bukomansimbi North braces for a spirited electoral battle that will shape its political landscape for years to come.
