EC Announces Kawempe North By-Election - Following the Passing of Hon. Seggirinya Muhammad.

KAMPALA — The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially announced the upcoming by-election in Kawempe North, following the unfortunate death of Hon. Seggirinya Muhammad, who passed away on January 9, 2025. The Clerk to Parliament notified the EC of the vacancy, marking the beginning of the constitutional process to fill the seat within 60 days.

Hon. Seggirinya, known for his engaging social media presence and dedication to his constituents, was a significant figure in local politics. His sudden passing has left a profound impact on the Kawempe North community, who regarded him not only as their representative but as a voice for the people’s concerns.

Under Clause 2 of Article 81 of the 1995 Constitution of Uganda, the Electoral Commission is mandated to conduct a by-election within two months of a declared vacancy to ensure that constituents are adequately represented. The EC is expected to release a detailed roadmap in the coming days, outlining key dates for nominations, campaign activities, and the voting process.

Kawempe North, situated in the heart of Kampala, is marked by its vibrant political atmosphere and a diverse electorate. The constituency is known for its active youth population and pressing issues, including healthcare, education, employment, and security.

As the political landscape heats up, the National Unity Platform (NUP), under which Hon. Seggirinya was elected in the 2021 general elections, is anticipated to nominate a candidate in a bid to maintain its influence in the area. Other political parties, notably the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), are also expected to field candidates, keen to capitalize on the opportunity to expand their foothold in the constituency.

Key campaign issues are expected to resonate with voters, centering around:

Service Delivery: The need for improved healthcare, educational facilities, and infrastructure development remains a pivotal concern for residents.

Youth Empowerment: With a youthful demographic making up a significant portion of the electorate, candidates will likely focus on creating job opportunities and skills development programs.

Security and Safety: As concerns over public safety and law enforcement persist, voters will be looking for plans to enhance community security.

Political analysts suggest that this by-election is not just a microcosm of local politics; it also reflects larger electoral trends across Uganda. The heightened scrutiny of the Electoral Commission, particularly regarding electoral transparency, adds another layer of complexity. The EC faces pressure to ensure a credible and fair election process amidst recent criticisms.

As the community of Kawempe North reflects on the loss of Hon. Seggirinya Muhammad, attention turns to who will step forward to contest for the seat. The upcoming by-election represents not just an opportunity for representation but a chance for voters to shape the future political landscape of their constituency.

As details emerge from the Electoral Commission, residents and political enthusiasts alike are advised to stay tuned for updates on the nomination process and upcoming campaigns—a political showdown is on the horizon.