The nomination of candidates contesting for parliamentary seats in Kampala for the 2026 general elections officially kicked off on Wednesday at the Electoral Commission (EC) offices, albeit starting 24 minutes behind schedule.

The exercise is being presided over by Kampala District Returning Officer Rashid Kasacca, alongside a team of EC officials.

Despite the minor delay, the first day of the two-day exercise drew a significant number of aspirants from across the political spectrum, many of whom arrived early to secure their spot in the queue.

Independent candidate Muhammad Nsubuga, who is eyeing the Kawempe North seat, was the first to be nominated shortly after the process began.

He was followed by Joy Kirabo of Nakawa East and Zahara Luyirika, the National Unity Platform (NUP) flag bearer for Makindye West.

By press time, several other candidates had also been cleared, including Allan Ssewanyana for Makindye West, Moses Mugisha Okwera for Nakawa East, Muhammad Ssenyonga for Kawempe South, and Shamim Nanfuma, who is vying for the Kampala Woman MP position.

Among the day’s notable aspirants was journalist Francis Lubega of Radio Sapientia, who was nominated to contest for the Makindye East seat on the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) ticket.

Lubega vowed to be the first MP to consistently return to the constituency if elected, pledging a more grassroots-oriented leadership style.

Security at the nomination venue was visibly heightened, with access strictly limited to accredited individuals, in accordance with EC guidelines aimed at maintaining order and avoiding congestion.

The Electoral Commission is expected to conclude the Kampala nomination exercise on Thursday, paving the way for the official campaign period to commence.

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