KALANGALA, Uganda: President Yoweri Museveni is expected in Kalangala District today to spearhead the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) final campaign efforts ahead of Wednesday’s Woman Member of Parliament by-election, as the ruling party seeks to reclaim the seat following the death of former legislator Hellen Nakimuli.
The President, who also serves as NRM National Chairman, will address a major campaign rally at Kibanga Playground in Kalangala Town Council in support of the party’s flag bearer, Idah Nabayiga.
The June 24 by-election was triggered by the death of Nakimuli, who represented the district under the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket until her passing in April.
Five candidates are contesting for the seat, including NUP’s Irene Nampala, a sister to the late Nakimuli, alongside three independent candidates.
By Sunday evening, senior NRM officials and mobilisers from different parts of the country had arrived in the island district to coordinate final campaign activities ahead of Museveni’s visit.
NRM Deputy Secretary General Rose Namayanja-Nsereko expressed confidence that the ruling party would secure victory.
“We are very, very optimistic. We are not just hoping; we are confident that we will secure more than 70 percent of the vote because the reception on the ground has been overwhelming,” Namayanja said.
She urged residents to attend the President’s rally and participate in the by-election.
“I want to call upon all party members and even non-members to come and hear the President’s message, and then turn up on the 24th in big numbers to elect the next Woman Member of Parliament for Kalangala,” she added.
According to Namayanja, the NRM’s grassroots mobilisation strategy has gained momentum across the district, with residents expressing interest in electing a representative capable of lobbying for government programmes and infrastructure development.
Meanwhile, NRM candidate Idah Nabayiga spent her final campaign days canvassing support in Kikwayu, Kibaale LC1, Senero, Mugoye, Ddajje and Kaazi Malanga landing sites, where she outlined her priorities if elected.
Nabayiga pledged to advocate for improved healthcare services, better road infrastructure, access to clean water, and enhanced ferry transport services for island communities.
She also promised to champion interventions aimed at addressing challenges faced by fishing communities and workers in the oil palm sector.
“When government funds are disbursed, I will ensure they reach the people within the Bidco community so that they too can benefit from programmes meant to improve household incomes,” Nabayiga said.
The campaigns have largely remained peaceful, with no major incidents reported among supporters of the competing candidates.
Political observers say Museveni’s visit could significantly influence the outcome of the race as the NRM seeks to strengthen its foothold in Kalangala, a district that has become increasingly competitive in recent electoral contests.
Voting is scheduled to take place on Wednesday across the island district.
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