Africa-Press – Uganda. A major political upset unfolded during the National Resistance Movement (NRM) internal elections in Bulambuli District, where long-serving Elgon County MP Ignatius Wamakuyu Mudimi was decisively defeated by incumbent Paul Kimamati in the contest for NRM chairperson for Elgon County.
Kimamati secured a commanding 550 votes against Mudimi’s 364, signalling a significant change in the district’s political dynamics.
Mudimi, who has served three terms in Parliament and once wielded considerable influence as a “kingmaker” within regional NRM circles, has seen his popularity wane amid lingering controversy.
His defeat is widely attributed to fallout from an alleged cooperative funds scandal that tarnished his public image and fuelled voter discontent despite his financial resources.
Mudimi is currently facing corruption charges related to the misappropriation of funds meant for compensating cooperative societies affected by armed conflicts.
He was arrested last year, spent over two months in detention, and was later granted bail while awaiting trial.
The allegations claim he conspired to divert public money for personal gain, though Mudimi denies the charges, calling them politically motivated.
The case remains ongoing, attracting significant local attention and impacting his political standing.
Some analysts also point to shifting alliances within the party’s structures as a factor in his loss.
“Mudimi’s grip on Elgon politics has been slipping, and this election just confirmed it,” said a political analyst familiar with the region.
In another notable development, former Energy Minister Irene Muloni reclaimed a foothold in Bugisu region politics by narrowly winning the NRM Mainstream Finance Secretary position with 320 votes (55%) against 277 (45%) for Jackline Nandutu Giduno.
Muloni, once seen as a stabilising figure in the region, expressed gratitude for the renewed mandate and pledged to strengthen party mobilisation and transparency in resource management.
However, analysts view the slim 5% margin as an indication of her diminishing popularity within the party, especially compared to previous elections when she ran unopposed.
Meanwhile, Elgon North MP Gerald Nangoli emerged victorious as Bulambuli NRM Vice Chairperson, unseating Mark Baaza with 482 votes to 259.
As the dust settles, observers see these results as reflecting shifting loyalties, a call for renewal within the party, and a warning to leaders who have taken their constituencies for granted.
With the 2026 general elections approaching, these outcomes are set to reshape alliances and strategies, signalling a highly competitive political season in Bulambuli.
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