NRM's 'Big Guns' Secure Kalangala District Seat from Opposition

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has regained the Kalangala District Woman Member of Parliament seat, securing a decisive victory in a closely watched by-election. NRM’s Idah Nabayiga emerged as the winner, polling 12,642 votes against her closest rival, Irene Nampala of the National Unity Platform (NUP), who garnered 7,474 votes.

The by-election, necessitated by the passing of the previous legislator, was viewed as a critical test of strength for both the ruling party and the opposition ahead of future general elections.

To ensure victory in the strategically important island district, the NRM mobilized a formidable campaign team spearheaded by prominent party figures. NRM Deputy Secretary General Rose Namayanja Nsereko spent weeks on the ground, working to strengthen the party’s local support base by engaging with various community groups, including women, youth, and religious leaders.

She was joined by other key NRM leaders, such as Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune, acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, who focused on re-energizing supporters across the district’s numerous landing sites and islands. The presence of NRM Electoral Commission Chairman Dr. Tanga Odoi and other directors underscored the party’s commitment to reclaiming the seat.

Political analysts suggest that the extensive experience and coordinated efforts of these NRM operatives provided a significant advantage in mobilizing voters and managing the election process. The campaign culminated in a visit from President Yoweri Museveni, the NRM national chairman, who addressed local concerns and pledged support for key industries like fishing and improvements in transport services, which observers believe boosted voter turnout.

In contrast, the opposition’s campaign was perceived as less coordinated, with some candidates showing limited engagement in high-profile events, including a televised debate. This further highlighted what analysts describe as organizational challenges within the opposition ranks.

The outcome in Kalangala demonstrates the NRM’s capacity for mobilized campaigning, while the opposition faces the challenge of building a more robust political machinery to compete effectively in island constituencies.

This report is based on information from Daily Monitor.