Summary:
- Dr. Odoi cited the recent NRM primaries for the Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament by-election as a wake-up call for the commission, highlighting the importance of early preparation.
KISORO: The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Electoral Commission Chairperson, Dr. Tanga Odoi, has urged the NRM party to prioritize early verification of its membership registers ahead of the 2026 primary elections to avoid potential challenges for the commission.
Dr. Odoi cited the recent NRM primaries for the Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament by-election as a wake-up call for the commission, highlighting the importance of early preparation. Reflecting on the challenges experienced during the Kisoro by-election, he expressed concern about the potential complications in the upcoming primary elections if the commission is not well-prepared.
He emphasized the need to conduct early tests on the registers and called on party leaders to space out elections to minimize logistical issues.
CUE IN DR. ODOI… ON NRM PARTY… ENG//
Meanwhile, the NRM flag bearer for the Kisoro District Woman MP by-election, Rose Kabagyeni, remarked that the by-election was not about winners or losers but about prioritizing Kisoro’s development.
In a congratulatory message issued on Saturday, Hon. Kabagyeni commended the unity demonstrated by voters, reaffirming her commitment to working together for the district’s benefit.
“This is a victory for all of us, a win for the development of our homeland,” Hon. Kabagyeni stated. “I commit to using your support to work alongside you for the betterment of our district.”
She thanked voters for their overwhelming support, noting their resilience in enduring the challenging process. She also extended her heartfelt congratulations to her fellow candidates, recognizing their commitment to democracy and love for Kisoro.
Kabagyeni won the election with 39,941 votes, narrowly defeating her closest rival, Grace Ngabirano Akifeza, who garnered 39,197 votes. Irene Muhirwe followed with 1,729 votes, while Nirere Fancy Brenda received 1,593 votes. Other candidates included Igiraneza Winfred Faith (510 votes), Irakunda Jemimah (363 votes), Mbonye Hellen (111 votes), and Blessed Kitentera (248 votes).