Lukwago Announces Bid to Reclaim Lord Mayoral Seat

Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has announced he will seek re-election under the banner of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF). 

Lukwago made the announcement at the PFF headquarters in Katonga while unveiling the Kampala Agenda 2026–2031, a book outlining the city’s challenges and highlighting his achievements as Lord Mayor.

For months, speculation was rife  that Lukwago might fill the void left by Dr. Kizza Besigye, who remains in detention and is unlikely to appear on the 2026 ballot, with some even suggesting Lukwago as a potential presidential candidate. However, addressing thousands of PFF supporters and aspiring local government candidates on Tuesday, he clarified that his focus is on reclaiming his seat as Kampala Lord Mayor. 

“We are gathered here today to unveil the Kampala agenda. Before I highlight the key points, I want to address a question on everyone’s mind: what’s next for me? The answer is clear. I’m throwing my hat into the ring to lead this great city, the Pearl of Africa,” Lukwago said. 

He explained that the agenda book will serve as a guiding tool for PFF leaders in Kampala over the next five years, documenting challenges and providing a framework for advocacy to improve city governance. Key issues highlighted include inadequate road networks, market challenges, environmental problems, governance hurdles, resource constraints, and rapid population growth. 

Meanwhile, more than 10 members of the National Unity Platform (NUP), led by Kira Municipality Mayor Julius Mutebi, who failed the local government vetting process, have defected to the PFF.