LUWEERO – The Luweero District Council has elected a new speaker under a cloud of political tension and bribery allegations.
Derrick Lukanga Kibirango, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) councillor representing Kikyusa Sub County, was declared winner after defeating Fred Kitaka of the National Unity Platform (NUP), a male councillor from Nyimbwa Sub County.
The election followed the resignation of former Speaker Abdul Mazinga, who was appointed District Communications Officer.
Presided over by Grade One Magistrate Esther Adikini, the council session saw 33 councillors cast their votes.
Despite the NRM’s minority position holding just 11 seats Lukanga secured 21 votes, defeating Kitaka who polled 12.
Magistrate Adikini administered the oath of office and presented Lukanga with the instruments of service, including the Constitution, rules of procedure, and the district seal.
Moments after taking office, confusion ensued when Lukanga attempted to oversee the election of a new deputy speaker, unaware that Kitaka had not formally vacated the position.
The move drew immediate criticism from District Chairperson Erasto Kibirango (NUP), who warned of legal consequences.
“The law is very clear: the deputy speaker can only be replaced if they resign, join civil service, or die. If we proceed, the council risks legal and financial repercussions,” Kibirango cautioned.
After a brief adjournment, the council reconvened and Lukanga stepped back, allowing Kitaka to retain the deputy speakership.
The election outcome has since triggered mixed reactions, especially from opposition and independent councillors, several of whom accuse Lukanga of bribing his way into office.
“I’m also a victim of Lukanga’s games. He sent me Shs 200,000 on Idd Day, wishing us a happy Iddi. I didn’t know he had intentions of running for speaker. That’s why I didn’t return the money,” said Isah Nsubuga (NUP), councillor for Ndejje Town Council.
Edward Zziwa (NUP), councillor for Luweero Sub County, said the opposition remains strong but acknowledged Lukanga’s political strategy.
“NUP is still strong on the ground. Maybe Kitaka wasn’t the right candidate to go up against Lukanga.”
However, some councillors welcomed the leadership change, citing frustrations with the former administration.
“Service delivery and lack of accountability had become normal. We approved Shs 27 million for a councillors’ retreat but received less, and when we raised concerns, the executive ignored us. I welcome the change,” said Ritah Nalweyiso, an independent councillor from Butuntumula Sub County.
Christine Nakabugo, the female councillor for Kikyusa Sub County (NRM), celebrated the win as a resurgence of NRM influence in the district.
“This shows that NRM is regaining ground in Luweero. I believe Lukanga will bring positive change in the remaining months.”
Still, District Chairperson Kibirango remained defiant and called on the public to be cautious.
“I’m disappointed in the NRM councillors who supported him. I know they were bribed. It’s unfortunate. I didn’t bribe anyone because I believe we have strong grassroots support. I urge the people to continue backing us,” he said.
In his response, Lukanga dismissed the bribery allegations and pledged to restore autonomy to the Speaker’s office.
“Kibirango had placed this office under his control. He’s worried now because it will operate independently, as it should,” he said.
On claims of vote buying, Lukanga said, “There’s nothing wrong with sending someone something for Idd. People will always talk when you win. We are not in council to promote hatred.”
With the 2026 elections drawing closer, attention now turns to Lukanga’s ability to steer the council through a politically charged atmosphere and deliver on his promises of reform and independence.
