Politics 19 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
NRM's Kisembo Wins Kikuube LC5 Seat Amidst Low Voter Turnout
Paddy Kisembo of the NRM has been elected chairperson of Kikuube District, winning a by-election triggered by the death of the previous chairperson. Despite a decisive victory, the election was marked by significantly low voter participation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/nrm-s-paddy-kisembo-wins-kikuube-lc5-by-election-amid-low-voter-turnout-5502764
Paddy Kisembo, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate, has emerged victorious in the Kikuube District LC5 by-election. Kisembo secured a substantial mandate, garnering 26,612 votes, comfortably surpassing his closest rival, Fenekansi Timanyire of the National Unity Platform (NUP), who received 8,712 votes.
The by-election was necessitated by the tragic passing of the former district chairperson, Peter Banura Araali, in a road accident earlier this year. The race attracted considerable attention, with senior government officials and NRM party leaders actively participating in the campaign, positioning it as a key indicator of political strength in the region.
Despite the Electoral Commission describing the process as peaceful, a notable concern was the unusually low turnout of voters across many polling stations. EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama expressed disappointment with the empty booths, a trend that political analysts attribute to factors such as voter apathy, economic pressures, and a perceived lack of significance in by-elections compared to general polls.
Residents have shown mixed reactions, with some optimistic about developmental continuity and others expressing skepticism due to past unfulfilled campaign promises. Kikuube’s strategic importance as a hub for Uganda’s oil and gas industry places significant expectations on its leadership to ensure local communities benefit from the sector’s growth.
The newly elected chairperson faces numerous challenges, including improving infrastructure, healthcare services, and addressing youth unemployment. Kisembo, in his acceptance speech, called for unity within the NRM party and pledged to immediately focus on serving the people of Kikuube. He emphasized the need to reconcile internal party divisions to effectively tackle the district’s pressing issues.