Chaos, controversy mar NRM LC1 elections in Kabale

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) LC1 Chairman elections in Kabale District have been marred by controversy and allegations of irregularities.

The election was characterised by allegations of voter bribery, falsification of the yellow book, disagreements, and protests.

At some polling stations, such as Kabale Municipal Main Stadium where Nile Post visited, the election was marked by chaos, falsification of the yellow book, and disagreements that saw the election process halted for two hours.

Later, police and the office of the RDC swung into action to calm the situation. All voters were then forced to vacate the polling station premises, and later, the reading of names in the yellow book kicked off.

At Bungongi Polling Station, Darius Hafasha, who was contesting for LC1 Chairman, protested his disqualification, which led to Eric Karemeera—who has been the chairman since the Obote leadership—being declared unopposed.

Peace Kakira, General Secretary NRM Kabale District, confirmed the incidents, attributing them to some groups of people working to tarnish the party’s support in the district.

She added that the election process was well streamlined, stressing that there was enough civic education as well as information circulation through different radio stations.

“The problem I have seen in Kabale is that people want to create chaos. Everything was streamlined; our district registrar has been on radios. The information has been clearly disseminated. This chaos is intentional because our party has been organised,” Kakira said.

The Assistant RDC, Christopher Turyomurugyendo, said that the turnout was good. He, however, noted that there was misinterpretation of the party guidelines that had been issued.

“People in Kabale turned up in big numbers to vote for their leaders. My call is that as we head for the general elections, voters should be educated on election guidelines,” Turyomurugyendo said.

The NRM LC1 Chairman elections are part of the party’s efforts to elect new leaders at various levels, with the aim of transforming lives

The problem I have seen in Kabale is that people want to create chaos. Everything was streamlined; our district registrar has been on radios. The information has been clearly disseminated. This chaos is intentional because our party has been organised,