Kampala Lord Mayor-elect, Eng. Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga, has pledged to lead the capital city with inclusivity, unity, and a solutions-focused approach, emphasizing teamwork over political rivalry.
Speaking on Sanyuka Morning Xpress on Monday, the outgoing Nakawa East Member of Parliament thanked God, his political party, and Kampala residents for entrusting him with the city's leadership.
"I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to lead the people of Kampala. I am grateful to my party president who believed in me and pushed me forward to serve the people of this great city," Balimwezo said.
The NUP candidate emphasized that his victory was driven by a clear vision and practical solutions for Kampala's longstanding challenges.
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"We are the only team with a clear and good plan for Kampala. We are not in competition for positions, but for solutions that can truly transform the city," he stated.
According to the official Return Form for Transmission of Results issued by the Kampala City Returning Officer, Balimwezo emerged victorious with 141,220 votes, the highest among eight candidates.
He defeated Kizito Moses Nsubuga of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), who garnered 43,615 votes, while the incumbent Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago of the People's Front for Freedom (PFF), came third with 41,915 votes. Lukwago has held the position since 2011.
Other candidates included Mao Beatrice (DP) with 2,162 votes, Naggayi Nabilah Sempala (Independent) 1,854 votes, Kasozi Ibrahim Biribawa (FDC) 1,427 votes, Kibalama Eddie Bazira (Independent) 188 votes, and Yamureebire Jothan (Independent) 119 votes.
Despite his decisive win, Balimwezo admitted that voter turnout fell below expectations. "I expected more votes. I had hoped to reach about 300,000, but the voter turnout was low," he said.
On concerns over political divisions at City Hall, Balimwezo struck a conciliatory tone, contrasting his approach with that of his predecessor.
"I am here to make sure Kampala gets better. My style of leadership is different from that of Lukwago. I am a team player, and I will not create wars. I believe in working together to build a better Kampala for everyone," he said.
He also noted missed opportunities for opposition unity. "We aren't here to fight over positions. If Lukwago truly wanted unity, he would have taken the role of coalition chairman," he added.
Balimwezo reaffirmed his commitment to cooperation and effective service delivery for Kampala residents. "There may be misunderstandings, but we will resolve them for the sake of service delivery," he said.
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His election marks a significant political shift in Kampala, raising expectations that his administration will usher in a new era of collaboration and urban transformation.
