Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola, a senior lawyer and seasoned politician, emerged victorious in the Kawempe North by-election, securing the seat under the National Unity Platform (NUP) banner.
Nalukoola garnered an impressive 17,764 votes, outpacing his closest rival, National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) Faridah Nambi, who obtained 8,593 votes in the 10-candidate race.
Who is Elias Nalukoola?
Born 42 years ago in Kirokole Village, Kawempe I Parish, Nalukoola is the son of Swaib Sserugooti Kajjankemba and Madiina Nantongo. A distinguished legal practitioner, he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law from Makerere University.
Nalukoola’s early education took him through Kawempe Islamic Seminary, Kyerima Umea Primary School, and Kawempe Muslim Primary School.
However, his academic journey was interrupted when financial constraints forced him to drop out of St. Paul SS Mpererwe after advancing to Senior Two. He subsequently ventured into working in Kampala, where he encountered celebrated musicians, including Bobi Wine, who later became his political ally.
During his time in Kampala, Nalukoola was inspired by the city’s vibrant music scene. Performing under the stage name Mr. Dandi, he attempted a music career, mimicking Jamaican songs. However, his aspirations in the entertainment industry were short-lived as he chose to return to his academic pursuits.
In 2001, determined to further his education, Nalukoola enrolled at Nile SS (now Kinaawa High School), where he completed Senior Three and Four, achieving a First Grade.
He later joined Kawempe Muslim Secondary School for his A-Level studies, excelling as the head prefect. In 2004, his stellar academic performance, including four A’s and a distinction in General Paper, earned him a place at Makerere University’s Law School.
While at Makerere, he was an active student leader, serving as a guild representative in the students’ parliament as the minister for justice and constitutional affairs.
In 2008, he contested for guild president, though he was unsuccessful. He also held the position of youth councillor and deputy speaker for Kawempe Division from 2006 to 2011.
After completing his law degree in 2010, Nalukoola pursued a postgraduate diploma in legal practice at the Law Development Centre. Initially affiliated with the Democratic Party (DP), he resigned as the party’s national legal adviser in 2023, citing disagreements over DP’s cooperation agreement with President Museveni’s administration.
Nalukoola’s legal career has been marked by a strong commitment to human rights, constitutionalism, and the rule of law. He gained experience working at Ochieng, Harimwomugasho & Company Advocates and Mayanja, Nakibuule & Company Advocates before establishing his own firm, Nalukoola Advocates & Solicitors, in 2016.
His legal expertise has been instrumental in several high-profile cases, including challenging the 2017 constitutional amendment that removed the presidential age limit.
With his latest electoral victory, Nalukoola is set to continue his advocacy, now in a legislative capacity, championing justice and the rights of the people of Kawempe North.
