Mukono NUP legislators have urged residents to reject leaders whose election victories are being challenged in court, arguing that such recognition undermines the democratic process.
Speaking during a thanksgiving ceremony held in honour of Nakifuma County Member of Parliament Sulaiman Kiwanuka at Ssaza Grounds in Nakifuma Town Council, Mukono North MP Abdudalah Kiwanuka Kayongo appealed to residents to withhold public recognition from leaders facing election petitions.
Kayongo argued that allowing such leaders to address public gatherings legitimises electoral malpractice and weakens public confidence in elections.
“People should not give platforms to leaders who forced themselves on the electorate. If you know you did not vote for them, do not allow them to speak at your functions,” he said.
The legislator expressed concern that continued acceptance of disputed leaders could encourage election irregularities across all levels of leadership, including village and parish elections. He cited ongoing disputes surrounding the Mukono District chairperson race and several lower local government positions.
A number of election petitions have already been filed in the High Court in Mukono under provisions of the Local Government Act and the Electoral Commission Act. Among the prominent cases is a petition challenging the declaration of Francis Lukooya Mukoome as winner of the Mukono District chairperson election against Johnson Muyanja Ssenyonga.
Addressing the gathering, Nakifuma County MP Sulaiman Kiwanuka emphasised the importance of leaders respecting the will of voters and serving with integrity.
“It is always good for people to be served by the leaders they entrusted with their votes,” he said.
Kiwanuka thanked his family, supporters, and political party for their continued confidence, noting that his political journey is driven by a desire to serve rather than personal ambition.
“I did not plan to become a Member of Parliament. This has been a calling, and I am committed to serving all people without discrimination,” he said.
He pledged to prioritise key development challenges in Nakifuma County, including access to clean water, healthcare, talent development, road infrastructure, and improving household incomes, regardless of political or religious affiliation.
Mukono Woman Member of Parliament Sheila Amaniyo said thanksgiving ceremonies are important in appreciating what leaders believe God has done for them, especially after a difficult campaign period marked by reported security excesses, including tear gas, beatings, and incidents that led to loss of life among supporters.
Meanwhile, Mukono Municipality MP Betty Nambooze called for unity within the National Unity Platform (NUP), urging members who became disillusioned after failing to secure party endorsements during recent internal processes to rejoin and work towards shared political goals.
“We should remain united and continue working together despite the challenges that may arise during the party’s internal processes,” Nambooze said.