You’ll Enter New Term Without An MP: Electoral Commission Breaks Silence On Kalangala By Election

By Swift Reporter

Electoral Commission of Uganda has outlined the legal process that will guide the filling of the Kalangala District Woman Member of Parliament seat following the death of Hon. Hellen Nakimuli.

Nakimuli, who was widely known as “Mama Kalangala” for her advocacy in health, education, women empowerment and youth livelihoods in the Ssese Islands, died in Kampala after complications arising from a surgical procedure. Her death has been described as a significant loss to both the district and the nation.

The EC Chairperson, Simon Byabakama, extended condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Kalangala, noting that Nakimuli had served in the 11th Parliament and was recently re-elected in the January 2026 general elections for the 12th Parliament. Her last appearance in Parliament was on April 15, 2026.

Byabakama explained that under the Constitution, the Clerk to Parliament is required to formally notify the Electoral Commission within 10 days once a parliamentary seat falls vacant. The Commission is then mandated to organise a by-election within 60 days.

However, he noted that the Kalangala case presents a unique situation, as Nakimuli was both the sitting Member of Parliament and MP-elect for the incoming 12th Parliament, which is scheduled to be sworn in on May 13. He clarified that it would not be possible to hold a by-election within the remaining days before the swearing-in ceremony.

“We cannot hold a by-election to fill the vacancy in the remaining days to the 12th of May. That will not take place,” Byabakama said.

As a result, Kalangala District will temporarily enter the new parliamentary term without a Woman Member of Parliament until a by-election is conducted.

The Commission is still awaiting formal notification from the Clerk to Parliament before initiating the electoral process. Once received, the EC will issue a detailed roadmap covering nomination of candidates, campaigns, and polling dates.

Byabakama emphasized that the Commission will strictly adhere to legal procedures in filling the seat, citing a similar case in Kikuube District where a by-election was held following the death of an elected local leader after formal notification.

The EC has assured the public that the vacancy will be filled in accordance with the law once all procedures are completed.