Kyaddondo East: Will NRM's Talemwa upset Opposition?

As Uganda gears up for the 2026 elections, the Kyaddondo East parliamentary race is shaping up to be a closely watched contest. According to recent polls conducted by various media houses, NRM’s Talemwa Christopher continues to lead with 35%, followed closely by Independent candidate Khalid Ssimbwa at 30%, FDC’s Apollo Kantinti at 10%, NUP’s Muwada Nkunyingi at 15%, and Independent Tom Muwonge at 7%.

The remaining 3% is shared among other minor candidates, including Magala Solomon, Nantege Jackie, Ali Moses, Kayanja Moses, Sowedi Kayongo (EPU), Masereka (DP), Mutalamuza Prince, and Rajab Ssozi (PFF).

Talemwa Christopher (NRM) – 35%
Talemwa’s campaign has relied heavily on a door-to-door approach, a strategy he argues allows direct voter engagement while remaining cost-effective compared to large rallies.

This method has enabled him to connect with the so-called "silent majority" and garner the support of influential NRM opinion leaders within Kasangati Town Council at the village level.

Notably, the ruling party holds two council seats in the area won unopposed, highlighting NUP’s relative weakness in the constituency. Talemwa also enjoys backing from beneficiaries of local development programs like PDM and Emyogga.

Khalid Ssimbwa (Independent) – 30%
Ssimbwa, contesting as an independent for the second time, remains a strong contender. Analysts credit his enduring popularity to his consistent community involvement.

Despite losing in 2021, Ssimbwa fulfilled his campaign promises, providing an ambulance, supporting women and youth projects, and sponsoring education for vulnerable children at Kasangati High School. His commitment to social causes, coupled with visible leadership gestures such as flying into the constituency via helicopter after nominations, has bolstered his appeal.

Ssimbwa is also closely associated with the Buganda Kingdom and local football initiatives, further cementing his community standing.

Apollo Kantinti (FDC) – 15%
Kantinti’s campaign faces historical hurdles. He briefly served as Kyaddondo East legislator in 2016 but was removed by the High Court due to non-compliance with electoral regulations. The court’s ruling paved the way for fresh elections, curtailing his earlier tenure to just nine months.

Muwada Nkunyingi (NUP) – 10%
Despite NUP’s national prominence, Nkunyingi has struggled to establish a strong grassroots presence. Researchers note that while many voters support NUP’s presidential candidate, Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu, they are unlikely to back Muwada for the parliamentary seat.

Tom Muwonge (Independent) – 7%
Muwonge, the current LC III Chairperson for Kasangati Town Council, has over a decade of local leadership experience. However, voters indicate fatigue, expressing disappointment over unfulfilled expectations and suggesting it may be time for him to step aside from active politics.

Conclusion
The Kyaddondo East race reflects a blend of entrenched party loyalty, independent credibility, and voter expectations. While Talemwa Christopher maintains a lead, the close margin with Khalid Ssimbwa underscores the competitive nature of the constituency.

As campaigns intensify, door-to-door engagement, community development, and local visibility are likely to remain decisive factors in shaping voter sentiment.