RUKIGA-In a tightly contested National Resistance Movement (NRM) primary election held on July 24, Mutebi Saimon emerged as the party’s flag bearer for the Rukiga District LC.V Chairperson seat, marking a major political milestone in the region.
According to official results announced just after midnight on July 25 by Rukiga District NRM Electoral Commission Returning Officer Yaryakumanyi Selubowa Twah, Mutebi garnered 20,266 votes, representing 44.7% of the total 45,371 ballots cast.
Mutebi’s closest challenger, Asiimwe Jackson, secured 10,380 votes (22.9%), while Atusasire Edmand followed with 8,757 votes (19.3%).
Other candidates included Niwandida Samuel with 4,772 votes (10.5%), and Nelson Atwongirwe, who trailed with 1,178 votes (2.6%).
Speaking shortly after being declared winner, Mutebi Saimon thanked his supporters and emphasized his commitment to inclusive leadership.
“This election was fiercely competitive, reflecting the democratic spirit of our people. The voters have made their choice clear, and I accept this mandate with humility. I pledge to be a leader for all serving every citizen of Rukiga District with equal dedication, fairness, and integrity, as my solemn duty requires,” he said.
Mutebi acknowledged early logistical challenges in the election process but praised the resilience of his campaign team and the trust of the voters.
In addition to the LC.V Chairperson race, several political newcomers emerged victorious in the NRM primaries for local government positions, signaling a generational shift within the party’s leadership in Rukiga.
Elected NRM Women Representatives to Sub-county and Town Councils: Hon. Twikirize Moreen – Kashabya Hon. Akampurira Ziporah – Rwamucucu Hon. Mable Size – Muhanga Town Council
Hon. Tuhirotwe Clare – Kamwezi Sub County A
Hon. Nahabwe Shallom – Kamwezi
B Hon. Allen Tumwijukye – Bukinda Sub County Hon. Anyogire Patience –
Mparo Town Council
Direct Elected NRM LC.V Councilors:
Hon. Nansasira Stuart – Bukinda Sub County Hon. Ampumuza Elie – Kamwezi Sub County Hon. Niwagaba Jorume – Kashabya Sub County
Hon. Bale Amedi – Mporo Town Council
Hon. Tukesiga Adah – Muhanga Town Council Hon. Munigamukama Linus – Rwamucucu Sub County
Before declaring results, Returning Officer Selubowa confirmed that three formal complaints had been received from candidates.
These were forwarded to the NRM Secretariat in Kampala for review and potential resolution.
The election results set the stage for a pivotal general election season in Rukiga District, as NRM candidates now turn their attention to the broader electorate. The outcome could reshape local governance and influence development priorities in the months ahead.
