Four individuals have been arrested in Rubanda District for allegedly stoning and damaging a government vehicle belonging to State Minister for Finance (General Duties), Henry Ariganyira Musasizi, during a political rally.
The suspects—Kenneth Owoyesiga, Apollo Tumusingyize (alias Map), Bruno Ndamwesiga, and Isaac Ainebyoona, all residents of Hamuhambo Town Council—are accused of attacking the minister’s convoy with stones, shattering the windows of his car shortly after a campaign event at Hakashanje playground in Nyakahanga Village on July 3, 2025. Six other individuals, known only by their first names, are also being sought in connection with the incident.
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Musasizi, who is seeking a fourth term as Rubanda East MP, was campaigning alongside Rubanda District LC V Chairperson Stephen Ampeire Kasyaba. Both politicians used the rally to caution against voter intimidation and warn that lack of support for their candidacies could jeopardize residents’ access to government services.
The arrests have sparked political controversy. Kenneth Jogo Biryabarema, Musasizi’s main rival in the NRM primaries, claims the arrested men are his campaign agents and were not present at the rally. He has accused authorities of targeting his supporters through harassment and intimidation to weaken his campaign. On Sunday, Jogo confronted police at Rubanda station demanding the release of the detainees, but was reportedly denied a meeting with the district police commander.
Security officials have confirmed the arrests and ongoing investigations, stating that suspects without evidence against them will be released. However, critics, including Biryabarema, question the lack of physical evidence—such as the alleged damaged vehicle—and cite a pattern of politically charged arrests and violence in the area.
The clash reflects deepening tensions between rival factions in Rubanda East, particularly as the region heads into the 2026 general elections. A similar political rivalry and violence were reported in the 2021 elections, underscoring growing concerns about political intolerance and the need for peaceful campaigning.
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