The Democratic Party (DP) has announced its intention to field a candidate for the upcoming Kawempe North parliamentary by-election, which became vacant following the death of former MP Muhammad Ssegirinya.
In a statement, acting party spokesperson Ismail Kiirya urged qualified members to submit their applications for consideration.
“We want to make it clear that we are interested in filling this position with a DP member,” Kiirya said.
He encouraged eligible candidates to apply through the office of the Secretary General, noting that two applications had already been received.
Kiirya also called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to ensure that the by-election is conducted fairly and impartially.
“We urge the EC to conduct the Kawempe North by-election without bias, as we saw in the Kayunga by-election. Election malpractice, often involving collusion with security forces, must not be tolerated,” he emphasised.
He further urged the police to maintain law and order without overstepping into the electoral process.
In addition to addressing electoral concerns, Kiirya took aim at the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) recent Liberation Day celebrations in Mubende, questioning the government’s legacy over the last 39 years.
“As the Democratic Party, we ask: What liberation are they celebrating when government officials avoid public healthcare due to its poor services?”
Kiirya said, citing examples of senior officials, including the late Minister of Defense Sarah Mateke, who sought treatment in private hospitals, and Minister Chris Baryomunsi, who was once airlifted for medical care.
He also criticised the country’s public education system, pointing out that government-run schools continue to underperform compared to private institutions.
“The best-performing schools in the recently released PLE results are private schools. The education system broke down long ago, so what liberation are we celebrating?” Kiirya added.
Kiirya further called for the removal of January 26 as a public holiday, arguing that it has lost its significance.
“This day is no longer worth celebrating, as it reminds us of the lives lost in Luweero for no just cause. Over the past 39 years, Uganda’s public debt has skyrocketed from 4 trillion shillings to over 90 trillion. Is this truly worth celebrating?” he questioned.
The party urged Parliament to reconsider the relevance of Liberation Day and to address the country’s ongoing healthcare, education, and governance challenges.
The Kawempe North by-election is scheduled for March 13, 2025, with candidate nominations set to take place in February.