The opposition National Unity Platform has commenced the process of selecting a candidate to carry its flag in the forthcoming Kalangala District Woman MP by-election following the death of former legislator Hellen Nakimuli.
Party officials confirmed that several women have already turned up for vetting at the party headquarters in Makerere Kavule as the race to replace Nakimuli gathers momentum.
Speaking to journalists, the party’s Electoral Commission Chairperson, Harriet Chemutai, said the exercise was aimed at identifying a suitable candidate to defend the seat for the party in the upcoming by-election.
She revealed that at least 14 aspirants had so far shown interest in contesting under the party ticket, although she declined to publicly disclose their identities.
Chemutai said all aspirants were being subjected to the same screening requirements in line with the party’s internal electoral guidelines. Applicants were required to present valid party membership cards, academic credentials, curriculum vitae, and copies of national identity cards before appearing before the vetting panel.
A member of the party’s Elections Management Committee, Johnmary Ssebwufu, said the process is intended to identify a strong contender capable of retaining the constituency for the opposition.
Under the party roadmap, candidates who make the shortlist will undergo further assessment before participating in a public debate ahead of the official announcement of the party flag bearer expected later this week.
The Kalangala Woman MP seat became vacant after Nakimuli, popularly known by supporters as “Mama Kalangala,” died on April 19, 2026, in Kampala following complications related to surgery. She had recently been declared winner of the January general election and was expected to serve in the 12th Parliament.
Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission of Uganda has already issued a roadmap for the by-election. Display of the voters’ register is scheduled to run from May 20 to May 29, while nomination of candidates will take place on June 4 and 5. Campaign activities are expected to run between June 8 and June 22 before polling on June 24.
Electoral Commission Chairperson Simon Byabakama has urged all political actors and stakeholders to observe electoral laws throughout the by-election period to ensure a peaceful and credible process.
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