MUGABE R
Mathias Mwesigwa Rwabugumi has been officially declared the NRM flag bearer for Rubabo County following a by-election in six villages contested by his closest rival, Alex Bob Rugonde. The results were announced today by the Rukungiri NRM District Registrar, Elias Katureebe.
Rwabugumi won the by-election after a petition by Rugonde challenged the results of the 17th July 2025 elections, in which Rwabugumi had garnered 10,264 votes against Rugonde’s 9,704. Rugonde’s petition cited irregularities in six polling stations—Rwenkureijo, Rugarama, Nyakiju, Rwere, Rusharara, and Nyamambo A—which were subsequently ordered for re-election by the tribunal.
During today’s by-elections, Rwabugumi received 408 votes while Rugonde secured 889.
Hon. James Tweheyo, NRM Party Commissioner, assured that the by-elections were conducted in accordance with tribunal guidelines and urged anyone dissatisfied with the process to submit complaints within five days.
Following the announcement, Rwabugumi thanked the people of Rubabo County for their trust and called on NRM supporters, including his opponent, to unite for the prosperity of the party.
Meanwhile, Bob Rugonde has declared his intention to run as an independent candidate in the forthcoming general elections, alleging that the NRM primaries were not free and fair.
