By Enock Ndyamuhakyi
Kabale- Rubaya Sub-county LC3 chairperson aspirant Noah Mubangizi has rejected the results of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries, alleging widespread malpractice, voter bribery, intimidation, and vote rigging.
Mubangizi, who lost to incumbent Nelson Atukwase by just 42 votes, claims the election was marred by irregularities across several villages. Official results, announced by Kabale District NRM Assistant Registrar Medard Ntegyereize, showed Atukwase with 1,766 votes and Mubangizi with 1,724 votes.
Addressing journalists at the Rubaya Sub-county tally center, Mubangizi accused Atukwase and his agents of threatening and intimidating his supporters, particularly in Kashengi Village, Butenga Parish.
He alleged that some of his polling agents were assaulted, their phones confiscated, and denied the chance to capture photographic evidence of voting irregularities.
He further claimed that in some villages where he polled over 200 votes and his rival had none, results were nullified without explanation. In Mukoni Village, Mubangizi alleged that his agent, retired Reverend Steven Munvaneza, refused to sign off on the results after allegedly receiving a bribe from Atukwase, then switched off his phone to block communication with the NRM registrar.
Mubangizi also pointed to alleged double voting in Ruhiri, Habugarama, and Rwabihindu villages in Kitoma Parish, saying these acts contributed to his defeat.
“There was a lot of injustice and unfairness,” Mubangizi said. “This was broad daylight vote rigging.”
The LC3 chairperson, who has been serving Rubaya Sub-county, announced that he will return as an independent candidate in the 2026 general elections, pledging to continue serving his supporters and fighting for fair leadership.
