BY Naome Namusoke/KMA updates
The nomination of candidates for district and city chairpersons, lord mayors, and councilors is underway across the country, with aspirants turning up in large numbers at Electoral Commission (EC) offices. According to the EC calendar, the exercise commenced yesterday and will run until tomorrow, September 5.
In Kampala, the process is being conducted at the Regional Electoral Commission offices in Ntinda, where several contenders have already presented their papers. Among them is Nakawa East Member of Parliament Ronald Balimwezo, who is vying for the Kampala Lord Mayor seat on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket.
Balimwezo, a seasoned politician with vast experience in local government before joining Parliament, pledged to deliver a corruption-free administration, uphold the rule of law, and prioritize job creation for the city’s youth if elected.
Addressing the press shortly after submitting his nomination forms, Balimwezo said his leadership would focus on restoring integrity and improving service delivery in the capital.
“Kampala deserves transparent leadership that works for all residents. My administration will tackle corruption, create opportunities for our young people, and ensure the rule of law is respected,” he declared.
His entry into the Lord Mayor race positions him as a formidable contender in what analysts predict will be a hotly contested election. Kampala, as the country’s capital and economic hub, has long been a critical political battleground, with the Lord Mayor’s office carrying significant influence.
Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission has cautioned aspirants against conducting full-scale campaigns before the official campaign period is announced. EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi emphasized the importance of compliance with the guidelines to guarantee a fair and orderly process.
The Kampala Lord Mayor election is expected to attract significant public attention, given its role in shaping governance and the political trajectory of Uganda’s capital city.