Kisoro, Uganda – Tensions are rising ahead of the Kisoro District Woman MP by-election, triggered by the death of MP Sarah Mateke, as National Resistance Movement (NRM) and Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) leaders trade accusations over voter intimidation and party defections.
UPC Party President Jimmy Akena accused the NRM of intimidating UPC members and engaging in voter bribery to influence the outcome of the by-election.
Speaking on the Voice of Lango’s Wimeja program, Akena expressed confidence in UPC’s candidate, Mable Ingabire, who he claims has strong community support.
He also highlighted a growing trend of defections to UPC in Kisoro, with supporters from rival parties reportedly joining UPC.
Akena’s comments were made in the context of his ongoing consultations for a possible presidential bid in 2026, with a focus on improving service delivery.
“We are facing intimidation, but Mable Ingabire has the community’s backing,” Akena said.
“There has been a noticeable shift in political allegiance in Kisoro, and many are joining UPC for our vision.”
However, NRM Electoral Commission Chairman, Dr. Tanga Odoi dismissed Akena’s claims as unfounded. Odoi argued that the main competition in the by-election is between NRM’s Rose Kabagyeni and independent, NRM-leaning candidate Akifeza Grace Ngabirano.
He also downplayed UPC’s presence in Kisoro, suggesting the party has minimal influence outside the Lango region and denied any significant defections to UPC.
“The real competition is between Kabagyeni and Ngabirano. UPC has no substantial presence in Kisoro,” Odoi stated.
“Akena’s allegations are baseless and an attempt to distract from the actual race.”
As the by-election draws near, the political battle between UPC and NRM in Kisoro is intensifying, with both parties aiming to secure a key victory ahead of the by-election.
The outcome will not only determine the next Woman MP for Kisoro but also serve as a significant indicator of the political dynamics in the region.
Credit: vol.co.ug…
