The Rukiga District LCV chairperson aspirant and National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer, Simon Mutebi Rwamagyenda, is facing accusations of campaigning beyond the deadline set by the Electoral Commission (EC).
According to the EC, campaigns for District Local Government Councils and District Chairpersons officially ended on Tuesday, 20th January 2026 at 6:00pm. However, Rwamagyenda’s campaign music truck was reportedly seen on Wednesday canvassing for votes in several areas including Kamwezi Sub-county, Muhanga Town Council, Nyakasiru, Karorwa in Bukinda, and Mparo in Rwamucucu, actions alleged to be in violation of EC guidelines.
An eyewitness, Success Agnes, claims the campaign truck even passed near the Rukiga District Electoral Commission offices while soliciting support, as the Returning Officer reportedly looked on. She questioned whether the candidate was operating above the law.
Success further says that her attempts to contact the Electoral Commission by phone went unanswered, prompting her to personally visit the EC offices in Muhanga Town Council, where officials reportedly assured her that action would be taken.
CUE IN SUCCESS….ON CAMPAIGN….RR//
Meanwhile, Michael Kwarikunda Mbareba, an independent candidate contesting for the same seat, has criticised both the Electoral Commission and security agencies for what he describes as failure to restrain his opponent.
He says he has instructed his lawyers to petition the Electoral Commission, insisting that electoral laws must apply equally to all candidates.
CUE IN KWARIKUNDA…..ON PETITION… RR/ENG//
The Rukiga District Returning Officer, Rebecca Mbabazi, has confirmed receiving multiple complaints regarding Rwamagyenda’s alleged campaigning past the official deadline.
She acknowledged that such actions contravene Electoral Commission guidelines and revealed that she has instructed the Rukiga District Police Commander to take immediate action, while advising complainants to formally file cases.
CUE IN MBABAZI…ON CAMPAIGN…. ENG//
