The mother of the late Muhammad Ssegirinya, Justine Nakajjumba, has publicly criticized the National Unity Platform (NUP) for overlooking her son’s former aide, Alex Luwemba Luswa, in the party’s selection process for the upcoming Kawempe North parliamentary by-election. In a statement made during the Duwa Prayers commemorating 40 days since her son’s passing, Nakajjumba expressed her deep hurt over what she described as a betrayal by NUP leadership.
Nakajjumba’s accusations stem from the party’s decision to award the Kawempe North parliamentary ticket to city lawyer Elias Nalukoola, despite Luwemba Luswa being a close ally and trusted aide to her late son. According to Nakajjumba, Luswa is more than capable of continuing her son’s legacy and fulfilling his promises to the people of Kawempe North.
“I am deeply hurt by the betrayal from NUP leaders. Luswa was my son’s right-hand man and understood his vision. He deserves the opportunity to continue his legacy, at least to finish his term,” Nakajjumba stated.
The controversy surrounding the party’s decision has highlighted the complexities of political loyalty and succession. Luwemba Luswa had contested in the NUP primaries for the Kawempe North seat but lost to Elias Nalukoola, who was later given the party’s official ticket. Luwemba Luswa, however, has chosen to contest the by-election independently, continuing to fight for his belief that he can carry forward Ssegirinya’s vision for the constituency.
The Duwa Prayers, which took place in Kadugala, Masaka, were attended by various top opposition politicians, including NUP Secretary General Lewis Rubongoya. Rubongoya reiterated the party’s commitment to Ssegirinya’s children and expressed his solidarity with the family during this challenging time.
The Kawempe North by-election, scheduled for March 13, has stirred up emotions within the NUP party, with many supporters expressing dissatisfaction with the party’s decision to choose an outsider over Luwemba Luswa, who many feel was better positioned to carry out Ssegirinya’s unfinished work.