By Daniel Ocan
Hoima, Uganda | Mercy Kanyesigye has been declared the winner of the National Female Youth Member of Parliament race, defeating the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate Diana Kampe Ampaire in a closely contested election.
The Electoral Commission (EC) announced the results on Friday evening at Hoima City Stadium, where Kanyesigye, who contested as an independent candidate, garnered 216 votes.
Ampaire came second with 198 votes.
Julia Muhumuza, also an independent candidate, secured 24 votes, while the National Unity Platform (NUP) flag bearer, Edith Namande Nakayiza, received one vote.
The results were officially declared by Kampala District Returning Officer Jennifer Kyobutungi in the presence of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Simon Byabakama.
Addressing delegates shortly after the announcement, Justice Byabakama commended the youth for participating in large numbers and exercising their constitutional right to choose their representative.
He praised the candidates, their supporters and polling officials for maintaining peace throughout the electoral process, noting that no electoral offences were recorded.
“This process was free, fair and transparent,” Justice Byabakama said, urging the unsuccessful candidates to accept the outcome, adding that elections inevitably produce both winners and losers.
He further called on the newly elected MP to act as a unifying figure for young people across the country, emphasising the importance of peace, unity and reconciliation as she assumes office.
In her victory speech, Kanyesigye thanked youth delegates from across Uganda for placing their trust in her and pledged to serve all young people regardless of political affiliation.
She also invited her former rivals to work with her in advancing the interests of the youth.
The election drew hundreds of youth delegates from various sub-regions, including Bunyoro, Kigezi, Tooro, Ankole, Acholi, Lango, Teso, West Nile, Buganda, Bugisu, Busoga and Karamoja.
