Police in Rubanda District have initiated a search for suspects who allegedly vandalized a government minister’s vehicle during a political campaign event, in what authorities describe as an act of political violence.
The incident took place on Thursday evening around 6:40 p.m. at Hakashanje Playground in Nyakahanga Village, shortly after State Minister for Finance (General Duties) and Rubanda East MP, Henry Ariganyira Musasizi, addressed supporters at a campaign rally. As his convoy departed, unknown individuals in the crowd reportedly threw stones, smashing windows of his car.
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According to Kigezi region police spokesperson Elly Maate, security forces responded by firing warning shots to disperse the gathering. While the motive for the attack is still under investigation, earlier signs of unrest included the defacing of Musasizi’s campaign posters.
Authorities have opened a case of malicious damage to property and are urging the public to reject violence and maintain political tolerance as election campaigns continue.
The minister, who is seeking a fourth term, was accompanied by Rubanda District LC V Chairperson Stephen Ampeire Kasyaba, who is also campaigning for re-election. During the rally, both leaders warned that hostility toward their campaigns could lead to consequences, including limited access to government services.
Musasizi is facing a renewed political rivalry from Jogo Kenneth Biryabarema, the former district chairperson, whom he defeated in the contentious 2021 elections. That contest was also marked by violence, including clashes between supporters and blocked rallies, pointing to a continuing pattern of heightened tensions in the area’s political landscape.
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