Africa-Press – Uganda. The National Resistance Movement (NRM) local government primaries in Kabale District were marred by low voter turnout and chaotic scenes, particularly in Kabale Municipality, casting a shadow over the ruling party’s internal democracy.
Three candidates—incumbent Nelson Nshangabasheija, Denis Nzirwe, and Wilbroad Rwamunahe—vied for the Kabale District LC5 chairperson seat, while the municipality mayoral race was contested by Sam Arineitwe and Ian Mugisha.
At Kabale Municipal Stadium, voting was disrupted when supporters of different LC5 candidates clashed, prompting police intervention.
The registrar, Mackline Ninsiima, was whisked away by security personnel as tensions flared and arguments among voters escalated.
Despite these incidents, Deputy Resident District Commissioner Christopher Aine described the overall electoral process across the district as “generally peaceful,” though he acknowledged the glaring issue of low voter turnout.
“Most of the voters had hopes in the Member of Parliament elections. After voting for MPs, they’ve shown no interest in these local government elections,” Aine said.
“Still, our role as security has been to ensure safety at all polling stations.”
Kigezi Region Police spokesperson Elly Maate confirmed the Kabale Municipal Stadium scuffle, stating that police had to extract the registrar to maintain order.
He also cited concerns at polling stations situated at Kabale Diocese and Diocese of Kigezi schools, where speculation emerged that students might attempt to vote.
“I can confirm there was chaos at the municipal stadium, but it was contained, and the situation is under control,” Maate said.
The disorganised scenes and voter apathy threaten to undermine confidence in the NRM’s internal processes and may further erode unity within the party in Kabale District.
The final results, once tallied, are expected to influence the district’s political direction ahead of the 2026 general elections.
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