Summary:
- President Museveni urged voters to support Kabagyeni, reminding them that she won the NRM primary elections.
KISORO: President Yoweri Museveni, the National Chairman of the NRM, has called on the people of Kisoro to vote for the NRM flag bearer, Rose Kabagyeni, in Thursday’s by-election for the district Woman Member of Parliament seat.
Kabagyeni is running to replace the late Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi.
President Museveni addressed large rallies at Muramba Sub County in Bufumbira South County and Shaza grounds in Kisoro Municipality, emphasizing that the ruling NRM party, to which Kabagyeni belongs, is committed to improving the livelihoods of Ugandans.
“Always ask candidates which political party they belong to before giving them your support. If you don’t, mistakes can be made,” Museveni said. “The NRM has proven its ability to drive development over the years, unlike other parties that stunted Uganda’s growth for two decades after independence.”
Since 1986, when the NRM assumed leadership, Museveni noted that Kisoro residents have embraced the “NRM gospel.”
He cited achievements like promoting peace, introducing free government education, expanding electricity access even in remote areas, and constructing tarmac roads, including in Kisoro.
President Museveni urged voters to support Kabagyeni, reminding them that she won the NRM primary elections. He commended other aspirants who withdrew from the race to back Kabagyeni, calling them “good leaders” as well.
Warning Against Tribal and Religious Politics
President Museveni expressed concern over reports that some candidates in Kisoro are using tribal and religious divisions in their campaigns.
“Those issues of tribes and religion are dangerous and can destabilize communities. They contributed to the fall of previous governments before we took power in the mid-80s,” he warned. “We went to the bush to correct that historical mistake, and it took us years. Anyone attempting to take us back to those times is an enemy of Uganda and will be dealt with.”
President Museveni highlighted the dangers of tribal conflicts, pointing to Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, which have suffered due to ethnic clashes. “Do you want such problems in Uganda, or do we stand together against it?” he asked the crowd.
Addressing supporters of an independent candidate citing stolen primary elections, Museveni said, “If the Kabagyeni team stole elections, the solution is not to abandon the NRM. Bring us evidence, and we will investigate. Those responsible for any malpractice will be held accountable. Let’s not divide ourselves over these issues.”
He cautioned candidates against promoting tribal or religious agendas, calling them “potential criminals waiting to go to jail.”
He added that he had met with religious leaders from Kisoro and Kabale to discourage such divisive tactics.
Endorsement and Commitment
President Museveni formally presented the NRM flag to Kabagyeni, who promised to serve the people of Kisoro with dedication if elected.
“I will not disappoint you if you choose me as your representative in Parliament,” Kabagyeni pledged.
The NRM Deputy National Treasurer, Hon. Jacqueline Kyatuhaire, who represented the party Secretary General, also urged voters to support Kabagyeni. “If elected, she will work closely with the government and other leaders to ensure effective service delivery,” she said, adding that the NRM is committed to “transforming lives through clear policies.”
The rallies drew ministers, NRM Central Executive Committee members, NRM Secretariat officials, and other legislators, showcasing the party’s unified support for Kabagyeni in the upcoming election.
