Kampala Mayoral Race: engineer balimwezo Challenges Lukwago’s Reign
(Image of Erias Lukwago – as provided in the original text)
Kampala, Uganda – A potential shift in Kampala’s political landscape is brewing as the 2026 mayoral election approaches. Engineer Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga is currently gaining critically important traction, according to recent online polls, potentially unseating incumbent Erias Lukwago.
Here’s a breakdown of the developing situation and what it means for Kampala’s future:
Rising Support for Balimwezo
Capital FM Uganda’s informal X (formerly Twitter) poll, conducted on September 3, 2025, revealed a striking preference for Balimwezo. Over 153,000 views and 389 replies indicated approximately 70% support for the engineer. You’ll find that this surge in popularity stems from his practical approach to local issues.
Specifically, residents are praising Balimwezo’s grassroots initiatives. These include free garbage collection in areas like Mbuya and providing legal aid to those facing eviction.One resident highlighted this directly,stating,”Hon Balimwezo’s truck has been collecting garbage from my place free of charge.”
Lukwago Faces Headwinds After 14 Years
While Lukwago still commands respect,his 14-year tenure is prompting calls for change.Approximately 30% of respondents in the Capital FM poll still support him,acknowledging his advocacy work. Though, manny voters are expressing a desire for fresh perspectives and solutions.
Lukwago officially launched his bid for a fourth term on September 2 under the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF).His platform centers on infrastructure upgrades and refugee integration.Yet, persistent challenges like flooding, traffic congestion, and inadequate waste management are fueling discontent, as recent reports have detailed.
Polls Paint a consistent picture
The Capital FM poll isn’t an isolated case. Additional user-created polls on X reinforce the trend.
@RayBidz’s survey, with 1,822 votes, showed Balimwezo leading with 78% to Lukwago’s 22%.
Another poll, with 82 votes, mirrored these results, showing 79% for Balimwezo and 21% for Lukwago.
These numbers suggest a growing appetite for a new leader in Kampala.
Balimwezo’s Platform and Experience
Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga, the National Unity Platform (NUP) flagbearer and current Nakawa East MP, offers a different profile than Lukwago. He brings a strong technical background, having been recognized as “Best Mayor” in 2015 by the Uganda Local Government Association.
His campaign focuses on:
Establishing skilling hubs to empower residents.
Driving urban progress initiatives.
* Providing practical solutions to everyday problems.
Potential for a Divided Opposition
The emergence of Balimwezo also introduces a potential split within the opposition. The National Resistance Movement (NRM) is reportedly backing Moses Kizito Nsubuga. This three-way contest could complicate the race and impact the final outcome.some observers are also noting a sense of voter fatigue with long-serving incumbents. As one X user pointed out, “How do we expect Museveni’s government to change when Lukwago wants to rule for 20 years?”
What This Means for Kampala’s Future
While these early polls aren’t scientifically definitive, they offer a valuable snapshot of public sentiment. They indicate that Balimwezo has the potential to seriously challenge Lukwago’s long-held dominance.
Ultimately, the outcome will depend on effective ground campaigns and the ability of each candidate to connect with voters. As Uganda moves closer to 2026, this race is one to watch closely.Have a story to share or an opinion on Kampala’s mayoral race? Email us at [email protected].