NRM's Nabayiga Wins Kalangala Woman MP By-Election Amidst Opposition Challenge

National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate Aidah Nabayiga has been declared the winner of the Kalangala District Woman Member of Parliament by-election, securing 12,642 votes. The Returning Officer announced Nabayiga's victory early Thursday morning after votes were tallied from 115 polling stations across the district.

Irene Nampala, the main challenger from the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP), came in second with 7,474 votes. Independent candidate Sarah Babirye followed with 244 votes, Hellen Flavia Nagawa received 217, and Agnes Nassuna garnered 34 votes. A total of 21,038 votes were cast, with 427 declared invalid and 67 ballot papers spoilt.

Despite the official declaration, NUP candidate Irene Nampala and her team have contested the outcome. Nampala alleged that her agents were removed from polling stations before results were submitted, leading to alleged alterations. She also claimed that in some areas, the number of ballots counted exceeded the registered voters, which she described as evidence of electoral malpractice. Nampala stated that her team is gathering evidence to determine their next steps.

Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama commended the candidates and voters for maintaining peace during the campaigns and polling. He noted the absence of major incidents and praised the demonstrated tolerance. Nabayiga, who previously served one term and lost the seat in the 2021 general elections, stated her focus will be on unity, strengthening the NRM party, and reviving stalled public service projects.

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I will focus on restoring unity among the people of Kalangala, strengthening the NRM party, and reviving stalled public service projects.