Son of former president Obote to run in Kawempe North MP By-elections

Bishop Edward Stanley Engena-Maitum, the eldest son of former President Milton Obote, has entered the race for the Kawempe North MP seat. He was nominated on Thursday by the Electoral Commission, joining other candidates in the by-election.

A total of six candidates were nominated on the final day of the nomination process. These include Moses Nsereko, an independent candidate, Henry Kasacca Mubiru from the Democratic Party (DP), and Faridah Nambi from the National Resistance Movement (NRM). Others in the race are Ismail Musiitwa from the People's Progressive Party, Mohamood Mutazindwa (Independent), and Edward Engena (Independent).

These candidates will compete with those nominated on Wednesday, such as Hanifah Karadi (Independent), Mohammed Luswa Luwemba (aide to former MP Muhammad Ssegirinya), Elias Luyimbaazi Nalukoola (NUP flag bearer), and Sadat Mukiibi, also known as Khalifa Aganaga, from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).

Although Engena does not reside in Kawempe, he emphasized his deep roots in the area, mentioning that his grandfather lived in Kawempe Kalule zone. He decided to contest as an independent candidate to unite the people of Kawempe North, regardless of their political affiliations.

Henry Kasacca Mubiru from the DP promised to push for universal health services, highlighting that many people in Kawempe struggle to afford quality medical care in private hospitals. Additionally, he proposed setting up a one-stop information center for the youth, which he believes should be expanded nationwide by the government to help young people access opportunities that can transform their lives.

Faridah Nambi from NRM announced that she would conduct door-to-door campaigns to reach voters. She also pledged to improve health facilities in Kawempe to ease the burden on Kawempe Referral Hospital. Furthermore, she plans to strengthen skill development programs for women to help them achieve financial independence.

Meanwhile, independent candidate Mohamood Mutazindwa had to change his election symbol from a phone to a bicycle.

Henry Makabai, the returning officer for Kampala District, stated that the Electoral Commission would meet with candidates and security officials to coordinate the campaign schedule. Campaigns are set to begin on March 1st.

Makabai also urged candidates to adhere to election guidelines to prevent disruptions, particularly for road users. He condemned the excessive force used by security personnel during Wednesday’s events, calling it unnecessary.