Aspirants vying for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party flag in Kabale Municipality have clashed over allegations of religious favoritism and fake endorsements during a burial ceremony.
The clash occurred at St. Luke Catholic Church–Bugongi in Kinyungusi Cell, Lower Bugongi, Northern Division of Kabale Municipality, during the requiem mass of the late Edith Zoreka. The incumbent NRM flag bearer, Sheikh Kassim Kamugisha who also serves as the Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Wakiso accused, without naming individuals, some aspirants of falsely claiming endorsements from religious leaders to boost their political campaigns.
Sheikh Kamugisha cautioned against dragging religious figures into politics, emphasizing that their role is to preach the gospel, not participate in partisan affairs.
He urged voters to demand documented proof of any alleged endorsements from religious leaders before believing such claims.
Kamugisha also warned mourners not to support former Kabale Municipality Member of Parliament Andrew Aja Baryayanga, who is now contesting for the NRM flag.
He alleged that Baryayanga once wore a red beret a symbol associated with opposition during previous elections, which he claims contributed to NRM’s weakened influence in the municipality.
According to Kamugisha, the fallout from this opposition led to ministerial positions being allocated to Ndorwa West and Rubanda East instead of Kabale Municipality.
CUE IN SHEIKH KAMUGISHA…..ON POLITICAL ENDORSEMENTS……RR//
Meanwhile, NRM flag aspirant Michael Byamungu Rwasabutare refuted claims that his political ambitions are financially backed by Baryayanga, specifically denying rumors of receiving Shs 200 million to join politics.
He also dismissed allegations that his campaign is being influenced by the diocese, urging residents to seek evidence before believing such falsehoods.
CUE IN BYAMUNGU……ON FALSEHOODS……RR//
In response, Baryayanga appealed to the electorate to trust him with the NRM flag, arguing that Sheikh Kamugisha had failed to effectively represent the party.
CUE IN BARYAYANGA…..ON THE ISSUE……RR//
Kabale Municipality Mayor, Emmanuel Sentaro Byamugisha, took a more reflective tone, urging mourners to show love and compassion for one another during their lifetimes, rather than investing heavily in lavish coffins and funeral expenses.
The late Edith Zoreka, who succumbed to cancer, is survived by five children.
