The Kampala Lord Mayoral race is heating up as the Electoral Commission officially nominates Beatrice Mao, wife of Democratic Party (DP) President General and Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, to contest for the position on the DP ticket.
Mao was nominated by Christine Mugerwa Kasule Gloria, and seconded by Kiwanuka Sempala and Mayambala George.
“I, Christine Mugerwa Kasule, do hereby propose Beatrice Mao for the position of Lord Mayor of Kampala City under the Democratic Party ticket,” Kasule declared during the nomination.
Following the nomination, Rashid Kasakya, the Returning Officer for Kampala Electoral District, confirmed her candidacy.
“I, Kasakya Rashid, the Returning Officer for Kampala Electoral District, hereby declare Beatrice Mao as a duly nominated candidate for the Democratic Party for the position of Lord Mayor.”
However, the returning officer cautioned her not to begin campaigning until the harmonization of the official campaign schedule.
Mrs. Mao joins a competitive race that includes incumbent Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who is seeking re-election for a fourth term under the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), and Eng. Ronald Balimwezo, the former Nakawa East MP, who is running on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket.
Lukwago, who has held the position since 2011, was formally endorsed by his party on Tuesday. He launched his bid under the theme: “Milestones Towards a Functional and Inclusive Kampala Capital City.”
Lukwago said:“Many may be wondering what I bring to the table. I am here to offer myself once again for the leadership and stewardship of the great city,the capital of the Pearl of Africa.”
The nominations come as the Electoral Commission continues the process of registering candidates for various Local Government positions ahead of the 2026 General Election.
