Kampala — THE economic planning state minister, Maurice Kagimu Kiwanuka, has urged Bukomansimbi residents to vote for Iddi Kisiki Lubyayi.

Addressing a gathering at Kitanda sub-county during the belated International Women's Day celebrations recently, he said: "My boss, the President, has sent me here for two reasons, one of which is to ask you to vote for Hajji Lubyayi, the NRM flag bearer.

"If my boss decides to vote for a particular individual, I cannot come out to challenge him and since I embraced the Movement, I told him that I will leave no stone unturned in Bukomansimbi. Vote for Lubyayi because I am now his friend".

The minister hugged Lubyayi, attracting ululation from the crowd.

Before Kagimu crossed from the Democratic Party to the NRM, he petitioned the High Court over Lubyayi's academic qualification and his election was nullified.

The Bukomansimbi by-elections will be conducted on April 3.

The seat fell vacant when the court disqualified Lubyayi for lack of academic qualifications.

Lubyayi, Deogratius Kiyingi (DP), Mohammad Kateregga (JEEMA), and Sarah Nassuna Kamulali (Conservative Party) are contesting for the seat.

The independents are Michael Lubambula, Mathias Kikomeko and Luke Sekamwa.

Electoral Commission chairman Eng. Badru Kiggundu said unlike previous by-elections where coordination and tally centres were at the district headquarters, they would be stationed in the electoral areas to ensure a transparent exercise.