13 Candidates Vie for NRM Flag in Kisoro Woman MP By-election

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has officially kicked off its primary campaigns for the Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament by-election, which is set to replace the late Sarah Mateke, the former State Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs. The by-election has drawn significant interest, with 13 candidates vying for the NRM flag. On Tuesday, hundreds of NRM supporters gathered at Busanza Secondary School grounds in Busanza sub-county to witness the launch of the campaigns.
The vacancy for the parliamentary seat arose following the passing of Sarah Mateke in early September. Mateke had been a prominent figure in Kisoro District politics and her death has left a void that many candidates are eager to fill. Despite some early suggestions that Mateke’s sister, Ruth Nyiraneza, should run for the seat, the Mateke family has decided not to be represented in this by-election, with Nyiraneza declining to run.
In the early afternoon, the 13 candidates addressed voters at different venues, including Nyarubuye sub-county and Gatete Playground in Rukundo town council. These campaigns mark the beginning of what is expected to be a competitive and closely-watched race.
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The candidates include Akifeza Grace Ngabirano, Sylvia Dushime, Winfred Faith Igiraneze, Jemimah Irankunda, Rose Kabagyeni, Blessed Kitentera, Irene Mahirwe, Hellen Mbonye, Fancy Brenda Nirere, Louise Niyikiza, Allen Nkurikiye, Aphia Nyiramahoro, and Eva Twireze. The race represents a broad array of candidates, reflecting the NRM’s wide reach in Kisoro District.
During Sarah Mateke’s funeral, there had been calls for Ruth Nyiraneza to take up her sister’s seat, with Kisoro District LC5 Chairman Abel Bizimana being one of the more vocal supporters of the idea. However, some community leaders opposed the proposal, arguing that it undermined the democratic process and suggesting that it created a sense of political dynasty in the district.
Before the campaigns officially began, NRM District Election Officer Tadeo Mujyambere led a moment of silence in honor of the late Mateke. Despite a heavy downpour that lasted over 30 minutes, candidates continued presenting their manifestos, showcasing their dedication to the campaign. Many supporters initially took shelter under umbrellas, but as the rain intensified, they were forced to seek cover in vehicles or use tarpaulins for protection.
During the event, Kisoro NRM Chairperson Dr. Philemon Mateke, the father of the late Sarah Mateke, urged candidates to maintain discipline and avoid hate speech during their campaigns. He reminded them that they all belonged to the same political family and that any acts of blackmail or division would result in disqualification. Dr. Mateke emphasized that the focus should be on the candidates’ plans for the district and their ability to garner voter support.
“The NRM is a strong party with disciplined members, and Kisoro is a one-party district,” Dr. Mateke declared. He also warned religious leaders against using their influence to sway voters, reinforcing the importance of keeping the election process neutral and free from external influence.
NRM District Election Officer Tadeo Mujyambere noted that this by-election was historic, as it is one of the most competitive races the district has seen in recent decades. The sheer number of candidates contesting for the NRM flag is a testament to the party’s popularity in Kisoro. Mujyambere reassured the public that security had been enhanced at all campaign venues to ensure peace and order throughout the process.
As the campaign progressed, supporters continued to rally behind their chosen candidates, with several key events planned in the coming days. However, the campaigns will pause on Wednesday to allow candidates and their supporters to join the rest of the country in celebrating Uganda’s 62nd Independence Day anniversary.
The campaign trail will resume on Thursday, with candidates expected to meet voters from Kisoro Municipality at Saza Grounds and those from Nyakinama sub-county at the Seed School playground. The campaigns will conclude on 23 October 2024, with elections scheduled for 25 October 2024.
The Electoral Commission has outlined the program for the by-election, which includes the display of the updated voter register at 322 polling stations across the district. This will take place from 14 October to 23 October 2024.
Kisoro District Woman MP By-election Timeline
Event
Campaign pause for Independence Day
Campaigns resume in Kisoro Municipality
Final campaign day
Election day
Voter register display