Tensions ran high at the Kabale Municipal Stadium as two high-profile aspirants were dealt unexpected blows during the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party elections, raising eyebrows and sparking controversy across the district.
Hon. Andrew Baryayanga Aja, a former MP and current aspirant for the Kabale Municipality parliamentary seat, suffered a stunning defeat at the hands of Hon. David Bahati, the incumbent Ndorwa West MP and State Minister for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives.
Baryayanga managed to secure only 49 votes, while Bahati garnered an overwhelming 539, a landslide victory that left many in disbelief.
Further controversy surrounded Sheikh Kasim Kamugisha, the Wakiso Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), who was abruptly disqualified from the race by Kabale District NRM Registrar Babra Ainebyona.
Citing regulations that bar civil servants from political participation without formal resignation, Ainebyona said Kamugisha had failed to submit the required resignation letter in time. Kamugisha, however, cried foul, alleging that a “Political syndicate” had orchestrated his removal.
Adding to the drama, Baryayanga accused the election organizers of gross irregularities, including allowing ineligible individuals like Kamugisha and Moreen Namanya to vote. He also questioned the legitimacy of the turnout, which reportedly exceeded 700 voters, more than double the anticipated 300.
Despite the tension, some candidates found opportunity in the chaos. Bridget Asiimwe, LC5 Councilor for Kyanamira, sailed through unopposed after Kamugisha’s disqualification. In her victory speech, Asiimwe promised to work hand-in-hand with the NRM to promote development in Kabale District.
Meanwhile, Minister Bahati used his victory to reaffirm his commitment to the party’s vision, calling for unity and service delivery within the region.
However, the integrity of the entire process has come under scrutiny. The presence of heavy security and restrictions on media coverage drew criticism from observers who feared that transparency and fairness had been compromised.
As the dust settles, the aftermath of the Kabale NRM elections leaves lingering questions and a political landscape marked by fractures, accusations, and a shaken faith in democratic processes within the party.
The Source Reports.
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