Opposition candidates in the Kawempe North parliamentary by-election have intensified their campaigns, focusing on the ruling National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) shortcomings to sway voters ahead of the March 13 poll.
The seat fell vacant following the death of Muhammad Ssegirinya earlier this year, setting the stage for a fierce contest among opposition-leaning candidates and NRM hopefuls.
Opposition contenders, particularly those aligned with the National Unity Platform (NUP) and independent candidate Hanifah Karadi, have sharpened their attacks on the NRM government, highlighting poor service delivery as a key grievance among voters.
“The government has failed to improve the lives of ordinary citizens in Kawempe North. People are tired of empty promises,” said Denis Ssekabira, head of campaign supervision for the Nalukoola camp.
Both the NUP and Karadi’s teams are banking on voter frustration with the ruling party’s governance to secure victory.
Meanwhile, NRM’s hopes rest on the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM), a government initiative aimed at uplifting economically disadvantaged citizens.
NRM flag bearer Nambi Faridah has anchored her campaign on the program’s success, arguing that it has transformed lives at the parish level.
“We have made significant strides through PDM, and voters can see the impact in their daily lives. I am confident they will vote for continued progress,” she said while canvassing support in Kawempe II Parish.
Independent candidate Muhamood Mutazindwa, on the other hand, has taken a different approach, vowing to challenge property tax policies that have burdened small business owners.
The race has seen candidates traverse multiple parishes, meeting voters in key areas such as Namere, Komamboga, and Kisasi. On Tuesday, independent candidate Moses Nsereko concentrated his efforts in Komamboga, putting up campaign posters and engaging with residents.
Unlike previous campaign days marred by security confrontations, this time, authorities have allowed candidates to conduct their political activities without interference. The relatively peaceful atmosphere has given each camp the freedom to engage with supporters.
With just a week to go until the by-election, all candidates are making their final push, knowing that voter turnout and last-minute persuasion will be crucial in determining the outcome of this hotly contested race.