Odongtho, Singh Among 38 Nominated for Two East African Legislative Assembly Seats in Uganda By-Election
KAMPALA, Uganda – March 27, 2026 — A total of 38 candidates have been nominated to contest for two vacant seats in the East African Legislative Assembly, marking one of the most competitive nomination exercises in recent years.
The vacancies arose after former EALA representatives Denis Namara and Kakooza Mutagubya were elected to Uganda’s 12th Parliament, prompting a fresh selection process to fill the regional legislative positions.
Competitive Field of Candidates
According to the official nomination list, the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has fronted a diverse group of candidates, including seasoned politicians, former lawmakers, and emerging public figures.
Among the notable nominees are Juliet Bashisha, Thomas Ainebyona, Davis Akampurira, Akol Vankar, Juliana Abonyo, Beatrice Karungi, Fred Rwakaizi, Emmanuel Buhaburwa, and Philemon Bwanga.
Other contenders include James Byarugaba, Brownie Ebal, Enid Mirembe, Isaac Mukindwa, Josylyne Kamateneti, Elias Kamukama, and Steven Mutungi.
The race also features Robert Kati, Hood Kiribedda, Stella Kiryowa, Ronex Kisembo, Godfrey Kiwanda, Briton Kiwanuka, Israel Kyarisima, Lauben Bwengye, Singh Katongole, and Ronald Musoke.
Additional nominees include Muhammad Mwesigye, Veron Nabwire, Winfred Namufumba, Aminah Lukanga, Charles Odongtho—a former television journalist—Phiona Rwandarugali, Godfrey Wanzira, Stephen Bujingo, John Kabeizire, Nobert Twizire, Hamuza Wadero, and Juma Witonze, reflecting a blend of experience and new entrants.
Selection Process and Representation
Members of the Parliament of Uganda elect EALA representatives through an indirect voting system. Uganda is allocated nine seats in the regional assembly, with the process designed to ensure gender balance and political diversity, in line with EALA election rules.
The ongoing verification and voting stages will determine which two candidates ultimately secure the available slots.
Role of EALA
The East African Legislative Assembly serves as the legislative arm of the East African Community (EAC), playing a key role in shaping regional laws, trade policies, and integration efforts across member states.
What’s Next
With competition intensifying among the 38 nominees, attention now shifts to Parliament’s decision-making process, which will determine who represents Uganda at the regional level.
The outcome is expected to influence Uganda’s voice in regional policy discussions, particularly in areas such as economic integration, cross-border trade, and legislative harmonisation within the East African Community.
