Kampala, Uganda – Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola has officially been sworn in as the Member of Parliament for Kawempe North, ending weeks of uncertainty and delays in his assumption of office.
The swearing-in ceremony, held today at the Speaker’s Chambers, was presided over by Speaker Anita Among, who congratulated Nalukoola on his decisive victory and welcomed him to the 11th Parliament.
The event attracted Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi, fellow MPs and enthusiastic supporters, all eager to witness the momentous occasion.
Running under the National Unity Platform (NUP), Nalukoola secured an overwhelming 17,939 votes, defeating his closest rival, NRM’s Faridah Nambi, who trailed with 9,058 votes.
However, his victory was marred by delays in gazettement by the Electoral Commission, leaving his supporters anxious about the prolonged process.
NUP leaders intervened, engaging authorities to expedite the swearing-in.
Speaker of Parliament Annet Anita Among reassured the public that all procedures had been followed and that Nalukoola could now begin representing Kawempe North in Parliament.
In his first address as MP, Nalukoola expressed gratitude to his supporters, NUP and his family, vowing to be the voice of the people in Parliament.
“This victory belongs to the people of Kawempe North. I am here because of you, and I promise to be your voice in Parliament,” he declared.
Nalukoola also requested additional time during Parliament’s next sitting to highlight key issues affecting his constituency, particularly the devastating floods caused by recent heavy rains.
“Madam Speaker, I request that when the sitting resumes, I will be accorded an opportunity to communicate to Parliament and the nation about the state of affairs of Kawempe North, which has not been substantively represented for so long,” he stated.
He further appealed for the unused time of his predecessor, Muhammad Ssegirinya, who was unwell for much of his tenure, to be granted for Kawempe North’s concerns to be fully addressed.
Speaker Among acknowledged Nalukoola’s request, emphasizing that his constituents had endured a long period without active representation.
“When the House resumes, we will give you space. Truth be told, they have not been represented for some time because Ssegirinya was sick and they were deprived of leadership. Welcome to the 11th Parliament,” she assured.
She further instructed Clerk to Parliament Adolf Mwesigye to ensure that Nalukoola receives all benefits entitled to MPs, including an official vehicle.
Speaking to journalists after his swearing-in, Nalukoola outlined his top priorities, pledging to push for improved infrastructure, better service delivery, and strong accountability in government.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the principles of transparency, justice, and community empowerment, promising to champion the voices of Kawempe North residents in Parliament.
