NELSON K
The LC2 NRM elections held on Monday across Uganda were marred by violence and disruptions in parts of Rukungiri District, particularly in Bwambara Parish, Bwambara Subcounty, and Kyatoko in Eastern Division, Rukungiri Municipality.
In Bwambara Parish, clashes broke out between supporters of two rival candidates — Christopher Turyagarukayo and Godet Muhumuza. Turyagarukayo was reportedly backed by supporters of Security Minister Hon. Jim Muhwezi, while Godet received support from those allied with aspiring Rujumbura MP Frank Rukanirwa.
Chaos ensued when a voter who had allegedly been bribed to vote for Turyagarukayo instead chose to support Godet. In response, Hon. Ntungura Gideon, the LC5 councillor for the area, reportedly attempted to force the voter to change sides. This action triggered a physical confrontation, with supporters of Godet, led by Mr. Totti Nintegeka and Frank Rukanirwa, retaliating by beating Hon. Gideon and assaulting Electoral Commission officials. The violence forced authorities to postpone the election to Wednesday, 14th May 2025.
Meanwhile, in Kyatoko, youth boycotted the election process after discovering that one of the candidates was 35 years old — above the age limit of 30 years required for youth representatives. The election in Kyatoko was subsequently postponed to today (Tuesday)3:00 PM.
Rukungiri District NRM Registrar Jackson Mugarura expressed deep disappointment, condemning the violence against electoral officials and the violation of Electoral Commission rules. He criticized voters for politicizing the process and called for respect of legal procedures.
Bwambara LC3 Chairperson Mr. Christopher Kagayano confirmed the incident and noted that voting in seven other parishes within the subcounty proceeded without incident. He condemned the violence and urged the public to follow Electoral Commission guidelines.
Police have since arrested individuals who were recording videos and taking photographs of the chaotic scenes, as investigations continue into the incident.
