Kampala, Uganda: Youth empowerment advocate Kizito Moses Nsubuga, Tuesday officially joined the race to become Kampala’s next Lord Mayor after picking interest forms from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party headquarters, an affirmation of his intent to contest in the party primaries ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Kizito, known for his redemption story and grassroots mobilization among Kampala’s urban poor and ghetto youth, is positioning himself as the ruling party’s best hope to reclaim City Hall from long-serving opposition figure Erias Lukwago, who has held the position for 15 years.
Speaking to DailyExpress shortly after collecting the forms, Kizito said: “I have seen how the rule of law works for Kampala; but nothing for the truth in the current leadership of the city, now the time has come, let Kampala witness how the will of the people works.”
The symbolic statement marks a bold shift in Kampala’s political script, reflecting a youth-powered, populist challenge to Lukwago’s entrenched leadership.
At the same function, two other aspirants in the NRM primaries for the same position, Mahad Kaweesa and Kintu William, formally announced their withdrawal from the race and declared their unreserved support for Kizito’s candidacy.
The pair cited Kizito’s transformative appeal, youthful energy, and capacity to disrupt the city’s long-standing political status quo. “We believe Kizito is the one who can deliver Kampala to the NRM. He speaks the language of the people, especially the ghetto, and we’re ready to back him 100%,” said Kintu.
Kizito’s growing popularity stems from his deep connection with vulnerable communities in Kampala, shaped by his personal journey from the streets to becoming a national voice for mental health awareness, youth rehabilitation, and inclusive urban development.
Insiders within the NRM Secretariat welcomed the consolidation of support behind Kizito, viewing it as a strategic step toward mounting a serious challenge in a city that has long been an opposition stronghold.
Kizito is expected to officially launch his campaign after the party vetting process, with rallies and community engagements lined up in key divisions including Makindye, Kawempe, and Rubaga.
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