NRM and NUP kick off campaigns in Kampala ahead of 2026 elections

11 November 2025, 12:16 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

According to the Electoral Commission, 521 candidates are contesting 146 positions for City/District Chairperson. Overall, 83,597 candidates are campaigning for 45,505 elective positions in this general election, which runs until 13th January 2026. Voting for President and Members of Parliament is scheduled for 15th January 2026. Security operatives continue to urge all candidates to campaign peacefully and follow Electoral Commission guidelines.

The Kampala Capital City Authority Speaker, Zahra Maala Luyirika, accompanied by her husband, Mr. Luyirika, and other National Unity Platform (NUP) leaders, launched the party’s Umbrella campaign at Katwe in Kampala District, marking the official start for aspiring Members of Parliament and Subcounty Councillors to canvass for votes.

Addressing supporters, Luyirika thanked the party leadership for endorsing her as the flag bearer for Makindye West and pledged to represent her constituents effectively, guided by the party manifesto. She said, “I am thankful to Almighty Allah for the opportunity given to me to represent the people of Makindye West in Parliament. I promise to work for our people and address their pressing issues. We chose Katwe because this is where everything starts, and together with other NUP leaders, we will ensure the garbage problem in Katwe market is resolved. I humbly urge you to vote for me and all NUP candidates.”

The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Rt. Hon. Joel Senyonyi, encouraged voters to support NUP candidates, highlighting that the party aims to restore presidential term limits once in power. He handed over the party symbol to the Makindye West aspirants, noting that President Kyagulanyi had sent his regards but remained in other areas campaigning. NUP Secretary General Lewis Rubongoya emphasised the importance of voting for party flag bearers. Other attendees included Hon. Kawalya Abubaker (Lubaga North), Nassolo Euginia (aspiring Lubaga South MP), Hon. Elias Nalukoola (aspiring Kawempe North MP), Lusagala Bosco (aspiring Mayor of Makindye Division), and Hon. Ronald Balimwezo (aspiring Kampala Lord Mayor), all of whom pledged to serve the people.

In this election cycle, a total of 2,025 candidates were nominated to contest 353 constituencies for directly elected Members of Parliament, while 640 candidates were nominated for 146 positions as District/City Woman Representatives. Additionally, Faridah Nambi, the NRM aspirant for Kawempe North, launched her campaign through door-to-door voter engagement, citing this approach as effective for understanding and prioritising voters’ concerns. Other candidates, including Hon. Medard Seggona (independent), have also begun campaigns.