The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the by-election for the Directly-elected Member of Parliament (MP) for Kawempe North Constituency and the Directly-elected Councillor for Kazo-Angola Ward, Kawempe Division, will take place on Thursday, March 13, 2025. The announcement follows the death of Hon. Ssegirinya Muhammad on January 9, 2025, which left the parliamentary seat vacant.
During a consultative meeting held with key stakeholders, including political, security, religious, and civil society leaders, the EC outlined the electoral programme and strategies to ensure a transparent, peaceful, and participatory by-election. In his address, the EC representative extended condolences to the late Ssegirinya’s family, the people of Kawempe North, and all those affected by his passing.
Key Electoral Activities
The by-election process officially kicked off with an update of the National Voters’ Register for Kawempe North, scheduled from January 27 to January 31, 2025. Eligible voters are encouraged to register or update their voter information to participate in both the by-election and the upcoming 2025/2026 General Elections.
The display of the Voters’ Register will follow, running from February 10 to February 19, 2025. This exercise will enable voters to verify their details and address any discrepancies. Additionally, voters can scrutinize the list of persons recommended for deletion from the register from February 19 to February 24, ensuring no eligible voter is disenfranchised.
Nomination of candidates is slated for February 26 and 27, 2025, at the Office of the Assistant Returning Officer in Kawempe Division. Campaigns will run from February 28 to March 11, 2025, during which candidates are urged to abide by EC guidelines to maintain order and peace.
Measures to Ensure Transparency and Fairness
The EC has implemented several measures to guarantee a credible electoral process. These include issuing Voter Location Slips from February 28 to March 13 to help voters locate their polling stations, training polling agents and officials, and limiting the number of vehicles at nomination venues to two per candidate.
Additionally, the EC has pledged close collaboration with the Uganda Police Force to ensure a peaceful environment throughout the by-election period. Observers will also be accredited to monitor the process, with strict guidelines to maintain neutrality.
Call for Stakeholder Cooperation
The EC emphasized the importance of stakeholder cooperation in mobilizing and sensitizing voters to participate peacefully in the electoral process. Political parties, candidates, and their supporters were urged to observe law and order, with the understanding that elections are competitive and can only have one winner.
The EC concluded by reaffirming its commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections in Kawempe North. Proposals and suggestions to enhance the process are welcomed, as the Commission strives to uphold participatory democracy and good governance in Uganda.
With a comprehensive electoral programme in place and key stakeholders on board, the by-election promises to set a strong precedent for democratic practice in Uganda.
