In a landmark shift for Uganda’s capital, Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga of the National Unity Platform (NUP) was declared the new Lord Mayor of Kampala on January 23, 2026, following the fiercely contested January 22 elections.
The civil engineer secured a commanding 141,220 votes, decisively ending incumbent Erias Lukwago’s 15-year tenure. Lukwago, running on the People’s Front for Freedom ticket, finished third with 41,915 votes, behind NRM’s Moses Kizito Nsubuga (43,615 votes).
The results were announced after two intense nights of tallying at the Nakawa District centre.
Lukwago, a veteran opposition figure known for his confrontational stance against central government policies, conceded defeat on Saturday, January 24.
In statements to journalists, he accepted the outcome despite noting flaws in the electoral process, praised his “immaculate” record of defending city assets and the urban poor, and vowed to continue advocating for social justice and the rule of law outside office.
Balimwezo, speaking in media interviews, including on local television, struck a markedly different tone. He pledged collaborative, inclusive leadership focused on practical solutions rather than conflict.
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“I am a team player, and I will not create wars,” he declared. “My style of leadership is different from that of Lukwago. I believe in working together with all stakeholders—government, opposition, residents—to build a better Kampala for everyone.”
He emphasised zero tolerance for corruption, equal application of the law, and people-centred governance to address longstanding urban challenges like infrastructure, waste management, and inclusivity.
The victory signals voter preference for pragmatism over prolonged protest, ushering in a new era for City Hall amid hopes for smoother central-local relations and tangible development.
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