Kumi, Uganda | Tensions are rising in Kumi Municipality after a section of National Resistance Movement (NRM) supporters staged a protest challenging the January 15, 2026 election results, raising questions about voter confidence and the ruling party’s influence in urban centres.
The protest, led by Richard Ochom, NRM flag bearer for Kumi Municipality Member of Parliament and mayor, drew hundreds of supporters who allege irregularities in the polls that saw several NRM candidates lose to independents and opposition contenders.
Supporters accused security personnel and some election officials of interfering with the electoral process, claiming intimidation, confiscation of results forms, and manipulation of tally sheets.
Ochom said the alleged interference undermines the party’s long-standing urban stronghold in Teso.
“Kumi has been a reliable supporter of NRM. We gave the President 84.1% of the vote, yet our candidates were denied victory,” Ochom said.
He added that all NRM flag bearers for parliamentary, mayoral, Woman MP, LC5 chairperson, and division positions were defeated under suspicious circumstances.
Vice chairperson for NRM in Kumi Municipality, Amos Okiring, echoed concerns, saying voters are frustrated and the party risks losing credibility if issues are not addressed.
“This is about protecting the voice of the people. If urban voters feel ignored or blocked, it could affect the party in future elections,” he said.
Residents who joined the protest also raised fears over the growing influence of independents and opposition figures in urban centres, arguing that Kumi’s political landscape may be shifting away from traditional party loyalty.
Some alleged that soldiers raided polling stations, assaulted supporters, and seized election materials, though security officials dismissed the claims.
Resident District Commissioner John Bosco Mubito defended the conduct of the polls, saying security personnel only ensured safety and order.
“The elections were peaceful and credible. Those dissatisfied are simply bitter losers,” he said, urging candidates to pursue legal avenues rather than public demonstrations.
Political analysts say the protests highlight a deeper trend: urban voters are becoming more assertive and less predictable, challenging the NRM’s historical dominance in towns like Kumi.
The situation underscores the delicate balance between maintaining party support and respecting the will of urban electorates.
Ochom confirmed that legal action will follow to challenge the results, emphasizing that the courts will determine whether the outcome reflected the true choice of voters in Kumi Municipality.
The Electoral Commission and Uganda People’s Defence Forces have not yet responded to the allegations.
