President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Monday led a high-octane campaign rally in Kalangala District, urging voters to rally behind the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer, Idah Nabayiga, in tomorrow’s keenly contested District Woman Member of Parliament by-election.
Addressing a large gathering at Kibanga Primary School playgrounds, the President, who doubles as NRM National Chairman, painted a bold development roadmap for the island district, promising to tackle long-standing transport and energy challenges.
“I have directed the addition of two more ferries to complement the existing ones on the Nakiwogo-Lutoboka and Bukakata-Kalangala routes,” Museveni announced, to cheers from the crowd. The new vessels will also serve routes from Entebbe and Masaka to various islands, easing movement for residents and boosting the fishing and tourism economy.
The President further pledged accelerated rural electrification, improved health services, better roads, and enhanced support for the palm oil and fishing sectors that form the backbone of Kalangala’s economy. He attributed previous slow progress in the area to communication gaps and urged voters to elect Nabayiga so she can effectively follow up on government programmes.
The by-election, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, 2026, was triggered by the untimely death of the incumbent, Hellen Nakimuli (popularly known as Mama Kalangala), in April. Nakimuli had won the seat in the January 2026 general elections on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket.
NRM’s Nabayiga, who previously held the seat, is facing off against NUP’s Irene Nampala — sister to the late MP — and several independent candidates. With over 42,000 registered voters spread across Kalangala’s 64 islands, the race has drawn national attention as a potential bellwether for next year’s general elections.
Opposition parties have reported challenges, including venue denials for their final rallies, adding to the tension surrounding the poll.
Speaking at the rally, Nabayiga thanked the President for his commitments and called on residents to give her the mandate to ensure these pledges are implemented for the benefit of all.
Political analysts say the outcome could hinge on voter turnout amid the district’s unique logistical challenges posed by its island geography and unpredictable Lake Victoria weather.
As polling day approaches, security has been heightened across Kalangala. The Electoral Commission has urged all stakeholders to maintain peace and allow voters to exercise their democratic right freely.
