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The opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) has set May 14 as the date for aspiring candidates to officially express interest in the forthcoming Kalangala District Woman MP by-election.
The seat fell vacant following the death of MP-elect Helen Nakimuli, a NUP member. According to Johnmary Ssebwufu, a member of the party’s elections management committee, aspirants will be required to physically submit their application documents at the party headquarters in Makerere-Kavule, Kampala, as part of what he described as a rigorous selection process aimed at identifying a strong party flagbearer.
Applicants are required to present a valid NUP membership card, curriculum vitae (CV), certified copies of academic documents, and a National Identity card.
Ssebwufu said the vetting process will be conducted fairly and in the best interest of the people of Kalangala. Vetting of successful applicants is scheduled for Saturday, May 16.
Shortlisted candidates will subsequently undergo a technical assessment and participate in a public debate before the party leadership announces the final flagbearer.
Notably, the family of the late Nakimuli has already fronted her sister, Irene Nampala, to contest for the seat, although she will still be required to go through the same internal party procedures.
Nakimuli, popularly known as “Mama Kalangala,” died on April 19, 2026, at Alexandros Medical Center in Kampala following complications arising from a surgical procedure.
Having recently won re-election during the January 2026 general election, her death created the need for a by-election ahead of the commencement of the 12th Parliament in June.
According to the Electoral Commission, the update of the voters’ register ends on May 12, while the display exercise will run from May 20 to May 29, 2026. Nomination of candidates is scheduled for June 4 and June 5, while campaigns will run from June 8 to June 22 ahead of polling on June 24, 2026.
When asked about the security incidents that have previously marred by-elections in Uganda, NUP Electoral Commission chairperson Harriet Chemutai said the party was prepared to protect its votes.
Electoral Commission chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama urged all stakeholders to observe the law throughout the electoral process. He noted that because Nakimuli died before taking oath as MP-elect, the by-election is critical to ensure Kalangala secures representation in the 12th parliament beginning this June.
