As Kawempe North heads to the ballot tomorrow, Thursday March 13, one name continues to shape the race, Muhammad Ssegirinya.
His passing not only left a void in the hearts of many but also cemented his legacy in the minds of voters.
The impact of his deeds is evident, as almost every candidate in the race has sought to align themselves with his memory.
A key aspect of this campaign has been the battle for endorsements from Ssegirinya’s own family. Candidates have scrambled to secure the backing of his relatives, each hoping to gain an advantage among his loyal supporters.
Among those vying for the seat is Muhammad Luswa Luwemba, Ssegirinya’s former aide.
He has been publicly endorsed by the late MP’s mother, who has consistently urged the people of Kawempe to support him.
Despite Luwemba’s strong ties to Ssegirinya’s family, the National Unity Platform (NUP) did not grant him the party’s flag, leading him to contest as an independent.
Meanwhile, Erias Nalukoola Luyimbaazi has received the backing of Akandinda, one of Ssegirinya’s widows.
Akandinda initially expressed interest in running for the seat herself but later opted to support Nalukoola after discussions with his campaign team.
On the other hand, the NRM candidate, Faridah Nambi, has also secured endorsements from within Ssegirinya’s household.
Nambi was recently seen alongside Mariam Nakabuye, another widow of the late MP, popularly known as Maama Nagirinya.
Nakabuye on Tuesday graced Nambi’s last rally and was presented to the national party chairman, President Museveni and the two posed for a photo moment.
Her decision to support Nambi marks a notable shift, as she has chosen to back a candidate from the ruling party , away from her late husband’s political side.
Additionally, Nambi has also presented Ssegirinya’s daughter to the public, claiming she is now under the care of Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja.
Initially, Ssegirinya’s family had declared their support for Luswa Luwemba, urging NUP to entrust him with the party’s flag.
However, after internal party processes, he was not selected, forcing him to run as an independent.
Despite the fierce competition, one thing remains clear, Ssegirinya’s influence looms large over this election.
His legacy has set a standard that no candidate seems to match in the eyes of his supporters.
It remains to be seen, which family member will have the last laugh in the Kawempe North by-election and whether they will keep Sseigirinya’s legacy.
