Nakku Wins by Three Votes in Nail-Biting Workers’ MP Race at Kibuli

Independent candidate Fiona Nakku has been elected the Female Workers’ Representative to Uganda’s 12th Parliament after edging out incumbent Agnes Kunihira in a dramatic, closely fought election held at Kibuli Secondary School.

Nakku secured 290 votes, narrowly defeating the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer and sitting MP Agnes Kunihira, who polled 287 votes, in a contest decided by a razor-thin three-vote margin.

The election was conducted under the Special Interest Group (SIG) framework, which guarantees representation of workers and other specific sectors in Parliament.

Out of the 630 accredited workers’ delegates drawn from across the country, 619 cast their ballots, reflecting a high voter turnout and intense interest in the race.

Historic Upset at Kibuli

Supporters of Fiona Nakku erupted into jubilation shortly after the Electoral Commission officials announced the results, chanting and waving placards at Kibuli Secondary School, where voting and tallying took place.

The result marks a significant political upset, ending Agnes Kunihira’s tenure and signalling a shift in the workers’ electoral college, which has traditionally leaned towards the ruling party.

Nakku, running as an Independent, capitalised on widespread calls for stronger advocacy for workers’ rights, better labour protections, and greater accountability in the representation of trade unions and employee associations.

A Tight and Highly Contested Race 

The contest was one of the most competitive in the Workers’ MPs elections, with the margin of victory underscoring just how divided the electoral college was.

According to officials, the vote was peaceful, transparent and professionally managed, with delegates from trade unions, professional associations and workers’ organisations participating in the exercise.

By the close of polling: 630 delegates were accredited

Fiona Nakku: 290 votes

Agnes Kunihira (NRM): 287 votes

Workers Elect Five MPs

The Kibuli election brought together workers’ delegates to choose five Members of Parliament who will represent labour interests in the 12th Parliament.

These seats include:

One Female Workers’ Representative

Four other Workers’ Representatives

The Workers’ MPs are expected to champion labour rights, workplace safety, fair wages, social protection and the interests of both formal and informal sector workers.

Nakku’s Message: “Workers’ Voices Will Be Heard”

In her victory remarks, Nakku thanked delegates for the confidence they placed in her and pledged to be a fearless advocate for workers across the country.

She said her priority would be to push for:

Stronger labour laws and enforcement

Protection of workers in the informal economy

Better working conditions and pay

Dialogue between government, employers and workers’ organisations

“This victory belongs to every worker who believes their voice matters. I will take your struggles to Parliament and ensure they are not ignored,” Nakku told cheering supporters.

A New Chapter for Workers’ Representation

Nakku’s victory signals a new chapter for workers’ representation in Uganda’s legislature, with many delegates saying they voted for change, independence and a more outspoken defence of labour interests.

As the 12th Parliament takes shape, all eyes will now be on how the newly elected Workers’ MPs translate the mandate from Kibuli into tangible gains for millions of Ugandan workers.