NUP Secures KCCA Leadership, Winning Speaker and Deputy Speaker Roles

The National Unity Platform (NUP) has successfully clinched the top leadership positions within the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Council, winning both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker elections. John Mary Sebuwuufu of NUP was elected Speaker, narrowly defeating the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) Kalule Ali Ssalongo by a margin of 18 votes to 16.

In the subsequent race for Deputy Speaker, NUP’s Olive Namazzi emerged victorious, defeating independent councilor Nicholas Kwarijja with 20 votes to Kwarijja’s 15. The elections, presided over by Buganda Road Court Chief Magistrate Ritah Neumbe Kidasa, were held at City Hall amidst palpable tension. A total of 35 ballots were cast, reflecting the full composition of the council.

Prior to the vote, Sebuwuufu emphasized his institutional experience and the need for analytical leadership to navigate KCCA’s complexities. He urged councilors to prioritize capable governance over party affiliations. Conversely, Kalule’s campaign focused on improving councilors’ welfare and fostering harmony between the political and technical arms of the city administration.

Namazzi centered her campaign on inclusivity and grassroots economics, calling for a focus on ordinary citizens. Kwarijja campaigned on institutional unity and structural checks-and-balances. Following his election, Speaker Sebuwuufu adopted a conciliatory tone, acknowledging the diverse composition of the council and pledging to serve all members with fairness and diligence, stressing the importance of cooperation for the common good of Kampala.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/nup-scoops-top-kcca-council-seats-as-sebuwuufu-namazzi-edge-out-nrm-in-tense-vote-5468272