The 2026 general elections are already shaping up to be one of the most hotly contested races in Kabale District, especially for the Woman Member of Parliament seat. With seven candidates duly nominated, the field reflects not just political diversity, but a growing appetite for leadership that connects with the daily struggles of ordinary citizens.
Among those contesting for the position are the incumbent Hon. Catherine Atwakiire Ndamira, NRM flag bearer Enid Origumisiriza, and independents Grace Ankunda Bwesigye Bekunda, Rosette Asiimwe, Tracy Ninsiima Immaculate, Immaculate Kaggwa Nyemera, and journalist Trust Kyomugisha. Each brings a unique vision and together, they paint a vivid picture of Kabale’s evolving political landscape.
Atwakiire: The Experienced Incumbent Fighting for Continuity
Honorable Atwakiire, known for her hands-on poverty alleviation programs, especially livestock distribution, has built her campaign around the symbol of a house, a metaphor for household transformation. Her record of distributing pigs and goats to support family incomes has earned her both praise and criticism, but her focus on household welfare remains clear.
Despite losing the NRM flag to Enid Origumisiriza, Atwakiire’s decision to run as an independent underscore her resilience. Her message is simple: development should not be derailed by internal party politics. She insists she’s offering Kabale voters a credible alternative, one grounded in results, not rhetoric.
Trust Kyomugisha: The Voice from the Airwaves
Trust Kyomugisha, a well-known radio journalist, brings a refreshing energy to the race. Her choice of the radio symbol reflects her belief in communication, inclusion, and respectful representation.
Her campaign promises revolve around maternal health, education, and income-generating projects such as poultry farming, issues that resonate deeply with ordinary families.
Her call for respectful politics and unity beyond religious divides is both timely and bold in a region where sectarian narratives have too often undermined progress.
Immaculate Kaggwa Nyemera: The Symbol of Time and Transformation
Nyemera, running under the clock symbol, represents urgency, a call to act now. Her agenda is ambitious: improving healthcare, supporting the elderly and orphans, and promoting sports by lobbying for the upgrade of Kabale Municipal Stadium to Namboole standards.
She portrays herself as a daughter of Kabale who understands its challenges intimately and insists that the district needs “quality leadership with vision.”
Rosette Asiimwe: The Young Reformist with a Comprehensive Plan
At just 30 years old, Rosette Asiimwe has positioned herself as the youth candidate with a clear manifesto under the theme “Empowering Families, Building Communities, and Restoring Hope.” Her detailed plans, from establishing women and youth skills centers to boosting agriculture, healthcare, and education, show an understanding of the structural gaps that continue to limit Kabale’s potential.
Her emphasis on accountability, community consultations, and unity gives her campaign a reformist tone that appeals to both young voters and disillusioned citizens tired of empty promises.
Grace Ankunda: The Voices for Unity and Empowerment
Grace Ankunda’s emphasis on unity, service delivery, and inclusion, especially for people with special needs, resonates with voters weary of sectarian divisions.
Her message is one of healing and progress, urging residents to prioritize leaders who serve, not those who seek power for its own sake.
The Bigger Picture: Kabale’s Political Crossroads
Kabale District stands at a crossroads. This year’s Woman MP race feels different: it is not just a contest of popularity, but a battle of vision and values.
From experienced incumbents to youthful reformers, from media personalities to grassroots activists, each candidate mirrors a different facet of Kabale’s hopes and frustrations.
The real question for the voters is not just who can win, but who can deliver. In a district where households still struggle to break free from subsistence farming, where health facilities remain under-equipped, and where unity is often tested by politics, leadership that listens and acts will matter more than party colors or campaign slogans.
Kabale now has seven women ready to lead. The power lies with the people, to choose the one whose vision aligns not just with their voices, but with their daily realities.
