In a move that has drawn comparisons to Uganda’s 2005 political drama, the Electoral Commission (EC) has nominated National Unity Platform (NUP) deputy spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro to contest for the Nakawa East Parliamentary seat while on remand in Luzira Prison.
Mufumbiro and his co-accused were later brought to Court for bail hearing.
Mufumbiro is facing charges of illegal drilling and conspiracy to commit a felony.
The cantankerous politician was duly nominated for the 2026 General Election through his wife and Kampala Lord Mayor aspirant Ronald Balimwezo, who appeared before the EC on his behalf.
The EC, under the leadership of Justice Simon Byabakama, confirmed that Mufumbiro had met all the constitutional and electoral requirements, despite being in custody.
The Commission cited his right to participate in elections, affirming that detention does not automatically strip one of their political or civic entitlements.
Mufumbiro’s nomination has sparked renewed debate over the intersection of politics, justice, and constitutional rights, echoing a similar moment two decades ago when Col. (Rtd) Dr. Kizza Besigye was nominated for president in 2005 while in Luzira Prison.
At the time, Besigye, then leader of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), was charged with treason and rape but was still cleared by the EC to stand in the 2006 presidential election.
His nomination was presented by his wife, Winnie Byanyima, and senior FDC officials, marking a landmark in Uganda’s political history.
Observers now say Mufumbiro’s nomination adds a new chapter to that precedent.
“History is repeating itself once again, a candidate is nominated from prison. It shows both the resilience of opposition politics and the EC’s recognition of constitutional freedoms,” commented a political analyst.
Party insiders revealed that Mufumbiro’s candidacy has galvanized support within NUP, with many viewing his legal troubles as politically motivated.
His supporters insist that his imprisonment will not deter their campaign in Nakawa East.
Mufumbiro, known for his fiery rhetoric and close ties to the NUP leadership, has been on remand at Luzira since his arrest.
