By Caroline.N
The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that it will organise a by-election to fill the Kalangala District Woman Member of Parliament seat following the death of former legislator Hellen Nakimuli.
Nakimuli, who was serving as the Kalangala District Woman MP in the 11th Parliament and had also been re-elected to represent the district in the 12th Parliament, passed away on 19 April 2026 after complications from a surgical procedure in Kampala. Her death came just weeks before newly elected Members of Parliament are scheduled to take oath.
Speaking on the matter, Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama said the Commission is unable to organise an immediate by-election because the current parliamentary term is nearing its end.
“At the moment, Kalangala has no District Woman MP, and there is no time to organise a by-election before the end of the current Parliament,” Byabakama said.
He explained that the by-election process will begin after the 12th Parliament is sworn in on 13 May 2026, when Kalangala officially enters the new parliamentary term without representation.
According to Uganda’s electoral laws, the Clerk to Parliament is required to formally notify the Electoral Commission within 10 days after a parliamentary seat becomes vacant. The Commission must then organise a by-election within 60 days of receiving that notification.
However, Byabakama noted that Nakimuli’s case presents unique circumstances because she was both the sitting legislator and the MP-elect for the upcoming parliamentary term.
“We cannot hold a by-election within the remaining days of this Parliament. Once the new Parliament begins and we receive official communication, we shall issue a roadmap for the election,” he added.
Nakimuli, a member of the National Unity Platform, was widely recognised for advocating for improved healthcare, education and transport services for residents of Kalangala’s island communities. She was also praised by fellow legislators for her commitment to public service and her active participation in parliamentary affairs.
Her death sparked an outpouring of grief from political leaders, colleagues and residents of Kalangala, many of whom described her as a dedicated and outspoken leader who championed the interests of her constituents.
The Electoral Commission is expected to release an official roadmap outlining nomination dates, campaign schedules and polling timelines once all legal procedures have been completed. Until then, Kalangala District will temporarily remain without a Woman Member of Parliament in the 12th Parliament.