BOMBO | The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has officially finalized the election of its ten military representatives for the 12th Parliament (2026–2031).
The high-stakes election took place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the Land Forces Headquarters in Bombo, Luweero District.
The exercise was overseen by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), led by Chairperson Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama, and chaired by President Yoweri Museveni in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief.
Who are the New UPDF MPs for the 12th Parliament?
The 2026-2031 cohort features several new faces and the return of key institutional figures. Lt Gen Sam Okiding, the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, topped the polls with 346 votes.
Elected Male Representatives:
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Lt Gen Sam Okiding (346 votes) – Deputy CDF & Inspector General
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Lt Gen James Mugira (303 votes) – MD, National Enterprise Corporation (NEC)
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Lt Gen Sam Kavuma (282 votes) – Deputy Coordinator, Operation Wealth Creation (OWC)
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Brig Gen David Gonyi (266 votes) – Chief of Staff, Air Force
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Maj Gen Henry Masiko (261 votes) – Joint Staff Political Commissar
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Maj Gen James Kinalwa (241 votes) – Joint Staff Human Resource Management
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Maj Gen Joseph Ssemwanga (198 votes) – Deputy Commander, Land Forces
Elected Female Representatives:
In line with constitutional requirements for gender representation, three women were elected:
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Col Sylvia Meeme (314 votes) – Military Police
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Col Night Ikiriza (307 votes) – Special Forces Command (SFC)
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Col Christine Nekesa (261 votes) – Air Force
Key Takeaways from the Bombo Army Council Meeting
1. President Museveni’s “Conveyor Belt” Strategy
President Museveni addressed the council, reiterating that Army MPs serve as a “listening post” and a “conveyor belt” for national security issues within the legislative house. He urged the new legislators to focus on solving the practical needs of Ugandans, specifically mentioning the Parish Development Model (PDM) and free education.
2. Notable Absences and Changes
The 12th Parliament marks a significant shift, as several high-ranking generals from the 11th Parliament, including Gen Katumba Wamala and Gen David Muhoozi, will not be returning as military representatives.
3. Commissioning of New Officers
During the same event, the President commissioned three officer cadets who recently completed training in Sri Lanka and Tanzania: 2Lt Bazalaki Tikula, 2Lt Moses Ekoi, and 2Lt Piloya Vivian.
Why Does the UPDF Have MPs?
Under the Constitution of Uganda, the UPDF is recognized as a Special Interest Group (SIG). Their presence in the “August House” is intended to ensure military participation in national legislation while remaining under civilian oversight.
“The UPDF remains the fulcrum of peace and stability in Uganda. It is befitting that this institution elects its leaders democratically.” — Justice Simon Byabakama, EC Chairperson.
