Incumbent Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has officially been nominated by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to run for a fourth term on the ticket of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF).
Addressing supporters at the IEC offices, in Ntinda on 5th September, 2025, Lukwago emphasized his commitment to safeguarding Kampala’s public assets from exploitation by wealthy individuals.
“We are starting with accountability, and then jealously guarding the city to protect property for all Ugandans,” Lukwago said.
Lukwago further emphasized that his administration must confront powerful cartels and wealthy interests in order to defend and preserve the city’s public assets.
He highlighted the threat to public infrastructure, noting that attempts to seize markets, schools, hospitals, and even drainage channels are on the rise.
“People want to grab public assets. We have to fight this looting,” Lukwago added.
PFF party spokesperson and Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemuju Nganda, who accompanied Lukwago to the IEC, stressed that the mayor’s leadership is critical for preserving Kampala as a hub for traders and small businesses.
“Lukwago has won Kampala more than three times, and his greatest challenge is keeping traders in the city. His battle goes beyond cleaning Kampala, it is a fight to protect communities and markets in areas like Kisenyi, Owino, and Lufura,” Ssemuju said.
Ssemuju also hinted at ongoing discussions among political parties to field a joint presidential candidate for the 2026 elections.
“The biggest battle is removing the president. The other is staying in Kampala. If they defeat Lukwago, people will start building on drainage channels and taking over city land,” he added.
Lukwago joins a growing field of candidates, including Beatrice Mao of the Democratic Party and Balimwezo Nsubuga Ronald of the National Unity Platform. The nomination process is ongoing, and additional candidates including independents are expected to enter the race.
As Kampala heads into a competitive mayoral race, all eyes will be on Lukwago and his rivals to see who can convince the city’s residents that they are best suited to protect its assets, support traders, and lead the capital through the challenges ahead.
The outcome will not only shape Kampala’s leadership but also set the tone for the broader 2026 general elections.
