Kabale-Sam Arinaitwe has been declared the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer for the Kabale Municipality mayoral seat following a resounding victory in the party primaries.
The results, announced by NRM district registrar Babra Ainebyona, showed Arinaitwe garnering 6,643 votes, defeating his closest rival Ian Mugisha, popularly known as Coach Baka, who polled 4,520 votes.
While declaring the results, Ainebyona urged voters to continue supporting Arinaitwe beyond the primaries, noting that unity within the party is essential heading into the 2026 general elections.
She also pointed out that Kabale Municipality has long been under opposition leadership, which she claimed has stalled development in the area.
“We need to rally behind our flag bearer to reclaim Kabale Municipality and bring about the transformation that has long been delayed under opposition rule,” Ainebyona said.
In his victory speech, Arinaitwe thanked voters for their confidence and pledged to lead a strong campaign aimed at capturing the mayoral seat for the NRM in 2026.
“This victory is not mine alone; it is a step toward reclaiming Kabale Municipality for the NRM. We are ready, and we are determined,” Arinaitwe declared.
He also criticized some of his opponents, accusing them of sabotaging his bid while pretending to be loyal NRM supporters.
“We must expose and reject political hypocrisy. Some individuals wear the party colors but work against its goals,” he added.
Arinaitwe vowed to work closely with both the party leadership and grassroots supporters to ensure that the NRM gains political control of Kabale Municipality for the first time in its history.
His victory is being viewed as a potential turning point for the ruling party in a constituency that has traditionally leaned towards opposition politics.
