Analysts Urge Ssegirinya’s Family to Stay Out of Kawempe North Succession

The call comes after Ssegirinya’s mother publicly endorsed Alex Luswa Luwemba, her son’s former personal assistant, as the ideal candidate to carry on his work.
Political analysts have advised the family of the late Kawempe North MP, Muhammad Ssegirinya, to avoid influencing the process of selecting his successor, emphasizing the importance of respecting democratic principles.
The call comes after Ssegirinya’s mother publicly endorsed Alex Luswa Luwemba, her son’s former personal assistant, as the ideal candidate to carry on his work.
“Luwemba worked closely with my son and understands his vision. I believe he is the right person to continue his legacy,” she said.
However, analysts caution against turning the political contest into a sentimental matter.
Imam Idi Kasozi, a prominent scholar, underscored that while the family’s attachment is understandable, political leadership should be determined by voters, not familial endorsements.
“Kawempe North belongs to the people, not a family. Allowing such endorsements risks creating a precedent for hereditary politics, which we often criticize in the ruling NRM,” Kasozi argued, urging the National Unity Platform (NUP) to adhere to its democratic processes.
NUP spokesperson Joel Ssenyonyi assured constituents of a transparent selection process.
“We have established procedures that guided Ssegirinya’s initial election. We will follow these same principles to choose the best candidate for Kawempe North,” he said.
The political climate in Kawempe North is already charged as potential candidates begin mobilization.
Residents have echoed calls for a fair process, urging aspirants to focus on their platforms rather than relying on the late MP’s legacy.
“We respect Ssegirinya’s contributions, but the choice of a new representative should come through a competitive and transparent process, not family endorsements,” a resident noted.
Historical examples in Uganda demonstrate that family endorsements do not always guarantee electoral success.
Instances include Dr. Rosemary Alwoc, who was unsuccessful in succeeding her mother, Cecilia Ogwal, and Samuel Junior Engola, who failed to replace his late father, Charles Okello Engola, in parliament.
As Kawempe North moves toward the next chapter, analysts and residents alike stress the need for democratic integrity to guide the succession process.