The Electoral Commission of Uganda has declared Erias Nalukoola, the National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate, the winner of the Kawempe North by-election.
According to the official results announced by the Electoral Commission, Nalukoola garnered 17764 votes, beating his closest rival, Faridah Nambi of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) who pulled off 8593 votes.
The by-election was held amidst a tense campaign period, marked by violence and unrest. Journalists and opposition supporters were targeted, with some being assaulted and arrested.
Nalukoola’s victory is seen as a significant win for the NUP, ahead of next year’s general elections which has which has already started gaining momentum.
The party’s supporters took to the streets to celebrate the win, waving party flags and chanting slogans, regardless of the fact that the results were declared in the night.
The NRM has not yet commented on the outcome of the election, but the party’s candidate, Faridah Nambi, has conceded defeat.
The Electoral Commission has been praised for conducting a relatively peaceful election, despite the challenges faced during the campaign period.
