Mao’s Wife Joins Kampala Lord Mayoral Race, Setting Stage for High-Stakes 2026 Contest

The race for Kampala’s top political seat has gained fresh momentum after Beatrice Mao, wife of Democratic Party (DP) President General and Minister of Justice, Norbert Mao, was officially nominated to contest for the position of Lord Mayor on the DP ticket.

Mao’s nomination papers were formally presented by Christine Mugerwa Kasule Gloria, with Kiwanuka Sempala and Mayambala George seconding her bid.

“I, Christine Mugerwa Kasule, do hereby propose Beatrice Mao for the position of Lord Mayor of Kampala City under the Democratic Party ticket,” Kasule declared during the nomination.

Confirming her candidacy, Rashid Kasakya, Returning Officer for Kampala Electoral District, announced:

“I, Kasakya Rashid, the Returning Officer for Kampala Electoral District, hereby declare Beatrice Mao as a duly nominated candidate for the Democratic Party for the position of Lord Mayor.”

Kasakya, however, urged restraint, reminding Mrs. Mao not to launch campaigns until the Electoral Commission harmonizes the official campaign program.

Her entry now intensifies what is shaping up to be one of Kampala’s most competitive races in years. The field already features incumbent Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who is seeking a fourth term under the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), and Eng. Ronald Balimwezo, former Nakawa East MP, running on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket.

Lukwago, who has steered City Hall since 2011, was formally endorsed by his party earlier this week. Launching his re-election bid, he reaffirmed his vision under the theme “Milestones Towards a Functional and Inclusive Kampala Capital City.”

“Many may be wondering what I bring to the table. I am here to offer myself once again for the leadership and stewardship of the great city, the capital of the Pearl of Africa,” Lukwago told supporters.

The nomination of Beatrice Mao, a fresh face in the city’s high-stakes political arena, is expected to not only energize DP loyalists but also test her party’s influence in a contest long dominated by Lukwago.

Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission continues the wider process of clearing candidates for Local Government positions ahead of the 2026 General Election, ensuring that Kampala’s mayoral showdown is firmly on the national radar.