Kikuube voters warn against government interference in by-election campaigns
Several community members accused the government of often taking sides during political campaigns, particularly in by-elections, which they described as highly susceptible to state interference.
By George Niyonzima
Residents in Kikuube District have called on the government to refrain from interfering in the ongoing by-election campaign process, saying voters should be allowed to freely choose leaders of their choice without external influence.
The concerns were raised as candidates launched their manifestos following the start of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primary campaigns on Monday, May 11, 2026.
Several community members accused the government of often taking sides during political campaigns, particularly in by-elections, which they described as highly susceptible to state interference.
The voters argued that communities have a constitutional right to elect leaders who understand and can address their challenges without pressure from political interests.
Edward Mugisha, a voter from Kyakasoro Village in Kabwoya Sub-county, expressed fears that government involvement in backing certain candidates could undermine the democratic process and sideline the wishes of ordinary citizens.
“Government participation in political campaigns weakens voters’ rights to choose leaders capable of solving the challenges affecting our communities,” Mugisha said.
He added that Kikuube District faces several unresolved problems that require committed and capable leaders, urging authorities to ensure a free and fair electoral process.
Besides concerns about political interference, Mugisha also called on aspiring leaders to prioritise agricultural transformation, noting that the majority of residents in Kikuube depend on farming for their livelihoods.
Other residents, including Margaret Karungi and Richard Wamani from Kabwoya Sub-county, urged candidates to focus on improving healthcare services and expanding access to clean and safe water sources.
“We need leaders who can improve services at health centres and ensure communities have safe water for domestic use,” Karungi said.
Meanwhile, the Kabwoya Sub-county LCIII Chairperson, Francis Tumwesige Mukoto, appealed for peace and harmony among residents throughout the campaign period.
Speaking during the launch of his campaign, Paddy Kisembo, who is contesting for the NRM party flag in the by-election, said he joined the race to address the key challenges facing Kikuube communities.
Kisembo pledged to use his lobbying skills to attract support from the government, development partners, well-wishers, and non-governmental organisations to strengthen economic development and improve public service delivery in the district.
He was nominated by the NRM Electoral Commission on Thursday, May 7, 2026, alongside four other candidates ahead of the party primaries and the final elections scheduled for June 2026.
The other aspirants include Christopher Nkalu, the Speaker of Kikuube District Council; Philip Mbabazi Burnet, son of retired Major General Matayo Kyaligonza and brother to the late Peter Banura; Patrick Tusabe; and another candidate identified only as Dickson.
