The upcoming Kawempe North Member of Parliament (MP) by-election is revealing deep-seated divisions within Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party. Hajjat Hanifah Karadi, one of the contenders for the NRM ticket, has decided to run as an independent candidate after the party flag was awarded to Faridah Nambi, daughter of NRM National Vice Chairman, Hajj Moses Kigongo.
Karadi, who had sought the party flag, has accused the NRM Electoral Commission of conducting a fraudulent selection process, arguing that Nambi was favored due to her father’s influence.
“Some of us are loyal cadres; we have been there for the party. It is unfortunate that the leaders of the party from the secretariat are breeding what they call independence because of the unfair processes. I, therefore, declare my candidacy. When the Electoral Commission opens nominations, I will contest as an independent,” Karadi announced.
Nambi, however, dismissed Karadi’s allegations, asserting that the party followed due process in selecting her as the flag bearer.
“If there is anybody who has a voice contrary to what the secretariat, the [NRM] Electoral Commission, and the security came upon, there is already a committee established to hear their voices. The NRM, as a party, has various opportunities to give to our people,” Nambi said.
NRM members had anticipated that President Yoweri Museveni, the party’s chairman, would intervene to resolve the dispute. However, he has remained silent, and Karadi has already begun canvassing for support.
The by-election, set for March 13, 2025, follows the departure of MP Muhammad Ssegirinya. Karadi is now seeking to rally voters around her independent bid, arguing that Kawempe North is in dire need of effective representation.