The Kisoro-based local artist and broadcast journalist John Mbonigaba, popularly known as John King, has been elected Mayor of Kisoro Municipality.
Mbonigaba, an Independent candidate, defeated the NRM flag bearer and Kisoro District Vice Chairperson, Alex Nambajimana, in the closely watched mayoral race.
He was on Tuesday night duly declared the winner by the Kisoro District Returning Officer, Daniel Nayebare, after securing 4,189 votes, representing 60.20 percent of the total votes cast.
His closest challenger, Alex Nambajimana, garnered 1,798 votes (25.85 percent). Other contenders included Ramadhan Ndikuyeze (Independent) with 808 votes (11.61 percent), Caleb Tuyishime (Independent) with 106 votes (1.52 percent), Muhumuza Emmanuel with 39 votes (0.56 percent), and Owen Ahimbisibwe of the People’s Front for Freedom, who obtained 18 votes (0.26 percent).
While declaring the results, Returning Officer Daniel Nayebare advised the incoming mayor to prioritize road infrastructure development, particularly along Mutanda Street, Garage Street, and New Park, areas that are frequently affected by flooding.
In his victory speech, Mbonigaba called for unity among key stakeholders, emphasizing collaboration as a vital step toward improving service delivery within Kisoro Municipality.
