Staff Reporter
The Bukimbiri County Member of Parliament, Honorable Eddie Kwizera Wa-Gahungu, has threatened to push for the disqualification of his political opponent, Asgariyo Turyagyenda, from his position as the Mutolere Deanery head of laity in Kisoro District, citing that Asgariyo has three wives.
According to Eddie Kwizera, Asgariyo’s wives live in different locations: one in Gayaza-Kampala, another in Nyarusiza Sub County, and the third in Nkuringo Town Council. Kwizera has called upon Kabale diocese to investigate and disqualify Asgariyo, alleging that he might have provided false information to secure the role. Kwizera asserts that he has sufficient evidence to support his claims and is prepared to present sureties in court if sued for defamation.
When contacted, Father Sebatware Joseph, the Dean of Mutolere Deanery, dismissed Kwizera’s allegations, stating that similar claims were investigated before Asgariyo’s confirmation and found to be mere rumors. He advised Kwizera to focus on his affairs, emphasizing that the Catholic Church is there to serve sinners. Kwizera found Sebatware’s comments amusing, arguing that leaders should be exemplary and that the Church should aid sinners in repenting.
Meanwhile, Turyagyenda Asgariyo urged Hon. Kwizera to stop making baseless statements and spreading rumors, suggesting that Kwizera should concentrate on his accomplishments and contributions during his time in parliament. Asgariyo also questioned why Kwizera is concerned with issues outside his religion and affirmed that he obtained his position as head of the laity after following all necessary procedures.
The rivalry between Kwizera and Asgariyo dates back to the hotly contested Bukimbiri County by-election in Kisoro District, where Kwizera, representing the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party, won with 12,214 votes against Independent candidate Asgariyo Turyagyenda’s 10,105 votes. The by-election was held after the Court of Appeal nullified Kwizera’s initial victory due to irregularities following a successful application by Owebeyi.
