The outgoing Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago, has conceded defeat following the Kampala Lord Mayorship polls held on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
Lukwago lost to National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga, who polled 141,220 votes. Lukwago, the incumbent, contested on the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) ticket.
Other contestants in the race included Naggayi Nabillah Sempala, Beatrice Mao of the Democratic Party (DP), Ibrahim Kasozi Biribawa of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Eddie Bazira Kibalama, and Jothan Yamureebire.
According to the results, Naggayi Nabillah Sempala polled 43,615 votes, while Lukwago came third with 41,915 votes. Beatrice Mao received 2,162 votes.
In his concession message, Lukwago said he accepted the outcome despite concerns over the electoral process.
“Notwithstanding the flaws that have marred this process as an integral part of the entire 2026 General Elections, I do hereby accept the outcome of the Kampala Lord Mayorship polls,” Lukwago said.
He thanked residents of Kampala for entrusting him with leadership, saying his tenure had contributed significantly to the city’s transformation, particularly for the urban poor.
“I owe a great debt of gratitude to the people of Kampala who accorded me a golden opportunity and platform to offer steadfast leadership that has had tremendous impact on the transformation journey of our beloved city,” he said.
Lukwago said he would leave office with pride, citing what he described as a record of integrity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the mandate of the people.
He added that history would remember him as a leader who defied significant political odds to execute his social contract with the people of Kampala.
“When the situation called for a charismatic leader who would not capitulate or pander to nefarious interests, even in the face of adversity, I lived up to that call,” he said.
Lukwago said he would continue to focus on the broader struggle for social justice, the rule of law, and a non-violent transition to a constitutional and democratic political order.
“I will eternally treasure the trust, love, and social bond I have shared with the people of Kampala and beyond, and I wish the best of luck to the newly constituted leadership,” he said.
