The Bufumbira East Constituency Member of Parliament in Kisoro District, Dr James Nsababuturo, has withdrawn his plan to contest as an independent candidate in the 2026 general elections.
Dr Nsababuturo, who has represented Bufumbira East for the last 20 years, was defeated by Roland Kanya Nkurumah in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries held on 17 July 2025.
In the primaries, Nkurumah polled 16,725 votes (53.1%), followed by Dr Nsababuturo with 12,756 votes (40%). Tumwizere Christopher garnered 1,384 votes (4.4%), Kisoro District LC5 Chairperson Abel Bizimana obtained 588 votes (1.8%), while Dr Adrian Niyimpa Dungu came last with 243 votes (0.7%).
Speaking to our reporter, Dr Nsababuturo said his decision to withdraw from the 2026 race followed consultations with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and other stakeholders.
He noted that many voters have lost appreciation of the true value of a vote, which he cited as one of the key reasons for stepping down.
Dr Nsababuturo further argued that political parties have, in his view, contributed to division in the country, adding that Uganda could function without them in order to promote unity and genuine democracy.
He condemned hatred fueled by politics, reminding the public that election seasons come and go, but communities must continue living together.
He urged voters to reflect on the power of their vote and to use it to choose leaders of integrity as the country heads into the 2026 general elections.
CUE IN NSABABUTURO……ON WITHDRAW……RR//
Meanwhile, Nkurumah commended Dr Nsababuturo for his integrity and loyalty to the NRM party following his loss in the primaries. He appealed to residents to maintain peaceful campaigns and elections, and to work together for the development of Bufumbira East Constituency.
CUE IN NKURUMAH……ON NSABABUTURO……RR//
