Full List: 23 candidates cleared for parliamentary races in Kibuku ahead of 2026 elections

Kibuku, Uganda: A total of 23 candidates have been confirmed to contest for three parliamentary positions in Kibuku District ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections, marking one of the most competitive races in the Bukedi sub-region.

The nominations, concluded on Thursday under the supervision of the Electoral Commission, cover the Woman MP seat for Kibuku District, and the Area MP slots for Kabweri and Kibuku counties.

The political lineup features incumbents, fresh entrants, and independents, signaling a heated contest between Uganda’s major political forces — the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), National Unity Platform (NUP), and Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).

Women Lead the Charge for District Representation

Seven women will battle for the Woman MP seat: Katooko Sylivia Damba (NRM), Byachi Hope Ndegemo (NUP), Namunyolo Ruth (FDC), Nakangu Susan (Independent), Naula Manjeri Bole (Independent), Keno Racheal Nangedde (Independent), and incumbent Hon Namuyangu Kacha Jenifer (Independent).

Damba, who defeated the incumbent (Hon Namuyangu) in NRM primaries, is widely seen as the frontrunner owing to her strong grassroots following and focus on education, health, and infrastructure. “Soon, I will be unveiling my manifesto to the voters,” she told reporters.

Her closest challenger, NUP’s Byachi Ndegemo, accused the NRM of “keeping the Bukedi region in poverty for over 40 years,” vowing to overhaul healthcare and education, and establish a referral hospital in the region.

Kabweri County: Wakida’s Defection Reshapes Contest

Six men were nominated for the Kabweri County MP race: Dr Patrick Wakida Godfrey (NRM), Kanyere Ronald Matayo (NUP), Kapio Simon (FDC), Gonahasa Emmanuel Piyata (Independent), Daka Mathias (Independent), and incumbent Mugole Mauku David Stephen (Independent).

Dr. Wakida, CEO of Research World International and a former FDC strategist, joined the NRM in 2024 in a move analysts called a “game changer.” Following his landslide primary win, he is now the frontrunner. “It’s going to be hotter than it was; they either lose or we win,” he said, teasing a manifesto launch expected to be graced by Speaker Anita Among.

Observers say Wakida’s defection has reinvigorated the NRM’s local base and positioned the party for a strong showing against the incumbent Mugole, who is running independently after losing in the primaries.

Kibuku County: The Largest Field of Candidates

Ten men were nominated for the Kibuku County seat: Tamwenya Charles (NRM), Tongola Tom (NUP), Mudederi Hamusini (FDC), Kinobere Herbert Tom (Independent – incumbent), Dodwa Hassan (Independent), Mujoke Sinani (Independent), Mukoda Harbert (Independent), Bonyoko Fred (Independent), Ikebere Abudalah (Independent), and Tagoya Richard (Independent).

Incumbent Kinobere, who lost the NRM flag to Tamwenya, is running independently, citing irregularities in the party primaries. “Coming back as an independent is to prove that the party primaries had malpractices,” he said. His decision highlights ongoing tensions within the NRM’s district leadership.

Kibuku District Returning Officer, Mwaita Anthony Ambrose, confirmed the smooth conclusion of the nomination process and praised the candidates for their discipline. “We thank the candidates for the cooperation exhibited and call for continued peace as campaigns commence,” he said.