As political temperatures rise ahead of the 2025/2026 parliamentary and local government elections, authorities in Rukungiri District have called on National Resistance Movement (NRM) aspirants to conduct peaceful, respectful, and coordinated campaigns.
This appeal was made during a meeting held at the Rukungiri District Council Hall, organized by Rukungiri District Elections Officer Kiiza Mugarura Jackson and attended by parliamentary and local government aspirants under the NRM ticket.
Speaking at the meeting, Mugarura emphasized that the goal of the gathering was to guide candidates on how to campaign without creating tension or conflict. He urged all aspirants to adhere to the NRM Electoral Commission’s joint campaign policy, which encourages collaboration among candidates to prevent internal clashes and promote party unity.
“We want to avoid situations where candidates compete in a hostile manner. Peaceful campaigns build voter confidence and reflect positively on the party,” Rukungiri District Elections Officer stated.
On his part, Rukungiri Resident District Commissioner Steven Nsubuga Bewayo issued a strong warning against voter intimidation, harassment, and any form of political violence. He reminded candidates that law enforcement will not tolerate threats against voters, rival aspirants, or campaign agents.
“Anyone who intimidates voters or causes unrest during campaigns will be arrested and face the law. Elections must be free, fair, and peaceful,” RDC Nsubuga warned.
Despite these appeals, candidates expressed varied positions on how to proceed with their campaigns. Aspirants in Rubabo Constituency, including Mathias Rwabugumi and Bob Rugonde, decided to hold individual campaigns, departing from the joint approach encouraged by the party.
In contrast, candidates from Rujumbura Constituency, such as Isaac Kaharuza (representing Minister for Security Jim Muhwezi), Frank Rukanirwa, and Ambrose Kibuuka, agreed to conduct joint campaigns. Similarly, Rukungiri Municipality aspirants like Hon. Dr. Elisa Rutahirwa, Andrew Kikira, and Nathan Kamugisha supported the idea of joint mobilization on the condition that the NRM Electoral Commission facilitates the process.
Meanwhile, woman MP aspirants like Annah Nuwagaba Tumuramye, Cledonia Musiimenta, and others promised to use their own resources to support joint campaigns without waiting for the Electoral Commission. They explained that working together would help them reach all parts of the district more efficiently.
As the campaign period intensifies, district officials stated again that their commitment to monitoring political activities is to ensure that all candidates uphold peace, follow NRM guidelines, and avoid any acts that could undermine the democratic process.
