Kamuli Acting Chairperson Sarah Sambya officially took charge in Kamuli District after the death of LCV Chairperson Charles Maxwell Kuwembula. Authorities confirmed they will not hold a by-election due to the upcoming 2026 general elections. This ensures smooth governance without interruptions.
The appointment followed Section 188(6) of the Local Government Act. This law allows the Vice Chairperson to take over if the Chairperson dies. Kamuli Chief Magistrate Paul Owino Abdonson swore her in on June 15, 2025, during Kuwembula’s burial.
He also cited Section 188(8), which says that holding a by-election less than six months before the general election is impractical. This legal basis supports the district’s uninterrupted leadership.
Chief Magistrate Owino clarified that Sarah Sambya will hold both Vice Chairperson and Acting Chairperson roles. However, she will receive only one salary, coordinated by the Chief Administrative Officer and Human Resources. No new appointments or replacements will happen during this time.
Chief Administrative Officer Nasser Mukibi congratulated Kamuli Acting Chairperson Sarah Sambya and urged her to lead with caution. He stressed that decisions must be based on facts, not rumors, especially during this sensitive period.
In her first remarks, Kamuli Acting Chairperson Sarah Sambya promised to honor the legacy of the late Chairperson Kuwembula. She stressed the need for unity and better service delivery in Kamuli District.
“We cannot afford to remain divided,” she said. “We must work as a team and focus on delivering quality services to the people.”
Her leadership aims to unite the district and restore harmony in politics.
Charles Maxwell Mugude Kuwembula, who was seeking re-election, died in a road accident on June 12, 2025. The crash happened early morning on the Nakifuma–Kayunga road near Nakifuma Trust Medical Center in Mukono District.
His white Toyota Hilux Double Cabin hit a stationary yellow Hacman truck. He was returning to Kamuli after collecting nomination forms from the NRM Secretariat in Kampala.
Kuwembula was laid to rest on June 15 at his ancestral home in Nakyaka Village, Butansi Sub-county, Kamuli District. Many local leaders and residents attended the funeral.
The decision not to hold a by-election means Kamuli Acting Chairperson Sarah Sambya will lead Kamuli District with full authority until the 2026 general elections.
This avoids disruptions from an election so close to the polls. It also follows legal provisions designed to keep local government stable.
Chief Administrative Officer Mukibi promised technical support for Kamuli Acting Chairperson Sarah Sambya during this transition.
She now has the responsibility to unite the district and ensure smooth service delivery. Her leadership marks an important time for Kamuli as it moves forward through grief and hope.
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