The Electoral Commission (EC) has commenced its three-day nomination process for individuals aspiring to leadership roles in municipalities and city divisions across Uganda, a crucial step towards the 2025/26 general elections. This exercise, which began on September 8 and will conclude on September 10, 2025, covers positions such as municipality and city division chairpersons, councillors, and representatives for various special interest groups including youth, women, workers, older persons, and persons with disabilities. Nominations are being conducted at EC district offices nationwide, with Kampala specifically handling these activities at each of its five city division offices.

EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi emphasized the need for an orderly and peaceful process, urging aspirants to meticulously review their documents before submission to avoid delays or disqualifications. He highlighted the requirement for chairperson candidates to present at least 20 verified registered voters as supporters and stressed that advance payment of nomination fees is mandatory for all candidates. Furthermore, to maintain a streamlined process, only the candidate, two supporters, and one official agent are permitted at the nomination table. Mucunguzi firmly stated that the nomination period is strictly procedural and not an occasion for campaigning, which will be scheduled at a later date by the Commission. He underscored the importance of peaceful engagement among all stakeholders, reminding citizens that their vote is their voice in shaping the future of their communities.

Amidst this ongoing process, Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga, the Member of Parliament for Nakawa East and the National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate, has officially been nominated for Kampala City Lord Mayor. Balimwezo arrived at the Electoral Commission offices accompanied by his wife, Rachel Balimwezo, and a delegation of prominent political figures, including MPs Erius Nalukola Luyimbazi and Kawalya Abubaker, along with NUP Deputy Spokesperson Waiswa Mufumbiro. After submitting all necessary documents—academic qualifications, supporter signatures, official agent details, and proof of payment—his nomination was declared valid by Kampala District Returning Officer Rashid Hasakya, who advised against premature campaigning. Balimwezo subsequently headed to the NUP headquarters for campaign strategy discussions, driven by a deep understanding of Kampala’s challenges and personal experiences, such as losing a leg due to poor infrastructure and the tragic Kiteezi garbage disaster. He is set to compete against incumbent Erias Lukwago, representing the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), and other nominees like Beatrice Mao.

In Kawempe Division, the mayoral race is taking shape with several notable nominations. The current mayor, Emmanuel Serunjoji, officially submitted his papers seeking re-election after a decade in office, highlighting his achievements in healthcare improvement, flood mitigation, and advocating for fairer property taxation. Latif Ssebagala Sengendo, running as an independent candidate despite not securing NUP endorsement, affirmed his loyalty to the party and its leader, Robert Kyagulanyi. He stated his decision to run was influenced by appeals from local residents and indicated he would be selective in supporting other political candidates. Faruk Bulime, representing the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and leading the Seven Hills initiative, was also nominated, pledging to prioritize garbage disposal, particularly in informal settlements. Eric Katende Njakaasi, an independent candidate and a teacher, overcame a brief delay due to supporter detail inconsistencies to secure his nomination. Njakaasi committed to enhancing the quality of education in KCCA schools and improving healthcare services, pointing out the inadequacy of a single hospital for the division's many women. Currently, four individuals are vying for the Kawempe mayoral seat, illustrating the active political landscape at the local level.

Once the nomination period concludes on Wednesday, the Electoral Commission is expected to release the official list of nominated candidates and detailed guidelines for the upcoming campaign period. These campaigns will provide a platform for candidates to present their plans for addressing critical local issues such as infrastructure development, employment opportunities, youth empowerment, and the enhancement of public services. These local government elections are vital for service delivery, local governance, and grassroots representation, serving as a critical measure of Uganda’s preparedness for credible and peaceful polls.