NTUNGAMO, Uganda — Ms..Naome Kabasharira, who represents Rushenyi County, formally launched her campaign for a second term Wednesday, pledging continuity and development-focused leadership under the ruling National Resistance Movement, or NRM, party.
Kabasharira, widely known as “Mama Rushenyi” by her constituents, was officially nominated by Ntungamo District Returning Officer Latif Ngonzi on the first day of the two-day parliamentary nomination exercise. She is the NRM flag bearer after defeating her main rival, Herbert Niwamanya Nyongozi, by more than 4,000 votes in the party primaries in July.
“At exactly 2:10 p.m., I was duly nominated to run for a second term,” Kabasharira told reporters and supporters after her nomination at the district electoral offices. “Five years ago, you sent me to Parliament. Our journey is not finished. The work continues.”
Kabasharira anchored her campaign to the NRM’s 2026–2031 national manifesto, “Protecting the Gains.” Her priorities for Rushenyi include enhancing household wealth through the Parish Development Model, improving health services with better staffing and equipment, expanding roads and water access, and strengthening education and electrification.
She stressed that her leadership would promote peace and unity, stating: “No insults. No violence. We are one people, one Rushenyi and one destiny.”
Her re-election bid is supported by the Rushenyi New Era coalition of local leaders and community stakeholders.
Dominic Tumwesigye Kadenge, a certified tax adviser, congratulated Kabasharira, describing her as “a unifying force for Rushenyi and a development steward.” He urged voters to respect the party’s selection process and rally behind all NRM candidates.
Justus Karuhanga, a lawyer and member of the Rushenyi New Era group, said Kabasharira has successfully unified previously divided political factions.
“This is not about personal ego or past differences; it is about putting Rushenyi first,” Karuhanga said. “We must choose unity and continuity over chaos and confusion.”
Karuhanga said the nomination reaffirms the peaceful choice made by Rushenyi voters. “I am very happy and excited that our MP, Rep. Naome Kabasharira, has been nominated. She is the genuine NRM flag bearer,” he said.
The political landscape for the contest was further solidified when Jonan Muhumuza, an NRM party mobiliser and potential challenger, withdrew and endorsed Kabasharira. Muhumuza said that while he was competent, “what Rushenyi needs now is continuity and clarity.”
Kabasharira’s first term focused on investments in roads, health, and economic empowerment programs. Supporters argue her emphasis on collaboration has improved service delivery and governance at the local level.
She emphasized the need for continued stability. “I will represent boldly, lobby tirelessly, and protect public resources without compromise. Let us stand together. Let us move together. Let us win together.”
