A violent outbreak stemming from internal political rivalry within Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has left one person critically injured and campaign property destroyed in Mubende District. The confrontation, which occurred on Monday evening in Kitera Village, Nabingoola Sub-county, involved supporters of Kasambya County MP David Kabanda and his challenger Henry Muhumuza during preparations for the party’s upcoming primaries.
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According to witnesses and local leaders, the clash began when Muhumuza’s convoy entered the area for a scheduled rally. It is alleged that a bodyguard affiliated with Kabanda opened fire on the group, injuring a Muhumuza supporter and sparking chaos that led to the burning of two vehicles and a motorcycle.
Muhumuza, who accused his rival of leveraging state security for political intimidation, called on President Museveni to curb the use of firearms in intra-party campaigns, warning that continued militarization could lead to further bloodshed.
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of panic as shots rang out, supporters scattered, and properties were torched. Some reported attempts to surrender peacefully, only to be met with more gunfire. Tensions had reportedly been building in the area, with accusations of intimidation tactics including overnight poster campaigns on private homes by Kabanda’s team.
The incident is one of several violent flare-ups reported ahead of the July 17 NRM primaries, underscoring rising tensions as internal party contests intensify in the lead-up to the 2026 general elections. Security and party officials had yet to issue a formal statement by press time.
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