STAFF REPORTER
Dr. Philemon Mateke, the NRM Chairperson for Kisoro District, has warned religious leaders against participating in the ongoing Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament by-election.
During a meeting yesterday, Dr. Mateke issued the caution, discussing the resumption of the NRM’s joint campaign program set to continue today. The campaign had been temporarily halted after President Yoweri Museveni, the NRM Party Chairperson, called all candidates to Kampala for a consensus meeting. Following the meeting, five candidates—Silvia Dushime, Niyikiza Louis Nalongo, Nkurikiye Allen, Nyiramahoro Aphia, and Twizere Evan—dropped out of the race.
While addressing the remaining candidates and security personnel at the NRM district office, Dr. Mateke advised religious leaders to avoid involvement in the election process. He claimed that some religious leaders in Kisoro had been providing financial support to certain candidates and urged them to stop to prevent facing consequences.
Dr. Mateke instructed the district NRM election officer, Mujyambere Tadeo, to issue formal warnings to the religious leaders. However, Mujyambere declined, stating that he lacked the authority to oversee religious figures in the district.
In response, Dr. Mateke offered to personally write the warning letters, emphasizing that religious leaders should refrain from political matters. He also encouraged the candidates to avoid personal attacks and instead focus on presenting their manifestos to voters, ensuring that the best candidate is chosen.
Dr. Mateke also expressed dissatisfaction with a presidential envoy who visited Kisoro without informing the district party leaders. Although he did not disclose the official’s name, it was reported that Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, visited Kisoro the previous week and met with some candidates without notifying the district leaders or security personnel.
Dr. Mateke emphasized that any official sent by the president should inform the Resident District Commissioner (RDC)’s office and other district leaders to ensure transparency in district affairs.
Kisoro District Deputy RDC, Robert Tukamuhabwa, reported that no major issues had arisen since the NRM joint campaign began. He stressed the importance of cooperation with security personnel and urged all candidates to follow campaign guidelines.
