"We Don’t Want You Anymore" — Voters Tell Ex-Ministers Clinging to Power After Defeat

When a big tree falls in the forest, even the smallest creatures rush in. This is exactly what some former ministers in Uganda are experiencing as voters reject leaders who fail to move on after losing office.A striking example occurred recently in Rukiga District, where former state minister for labour Herbert Kabafunzaki faced a humiliating moment during a joint NRM campaign rally at Nyakasiru Primary School.

The rally, organized ahead of the July 17 party primaries, drew hundreds of party supporters eager to hear from new aspirants.

When Kabafunzaki was invited to say a few words, he was met with loud boos and jeers. Many supporters turned their backs and waved their hands to show displeasure.

The former minister, who was previously entangled in a bribery scandal at Serena Hotel involving Shs5 million, attempted to calm the crowd but was forced off stage.

Rukiga district NRM registrar Twaha Serubowa intervened, pausing the rally to remind the crowd that the event was meant for current aspirants only.

Kabafunzaki was then escorted away, clearly illustrating that voters are no longer willing to accommodate politicians they perceive as failed or opportunistic.

In contrast, former minister Dr. Kasirivu Atwooki of Bugangaizi West chose to step aside gracefully. Atwooki decided not to contest again, allowing State Minister for Transport Fred Byamukama to proceed unopposed in Kakumiro district’s party primaries.

Once a strong supporter of President Museveni and a celebrated farmer, Atwooki seems to have read the public mood, exiting politics with his dignity intact.

Meanwhile, in Kasese District, former heavyweight Dr. Crispus Kiyonga attempted a comeback by seeking the NRM flag for Bukonzo West.

However, he skipped several official rallies, preferring quiet door-to-door campaigns. His main opponent, Godfrey Kabbyanga, openly questioned Kiyonga’s dedication, arguing that the party needed new energy to win back the seat from the opposition.

Despite pledging to support whoever wins, Kiyonga’s fading presence has revealed that voters may have moved on without him.

From Kabafunzaki’s boos, Atwooki’s silent withdrawal, to Kiyonga’s dwindling support, the message is clear: voters want fresh leadership that speaks to their daily struggles.

Politicians clinging to past glories without offering new ideas face a harsh reality — Ugandans are ready to close the chapter on leaders who can’t move on