Museveni Convenes Kisoro Candidates to Foster Unity and Peaceful Campaigns
By The Public Lens
President Yoweri Museveni, chairperson of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has summoned 13 candidates vying for the party’s flag bearer position in the Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament byelection.
The meeting, set to take place in Kampala, aims to streamline the campaigning process following the death of State Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Sarah Mateke.
Attendees include Akifeza Grace Ngabirano, Sylvia Dushime, Igiraneze Winfred Faith, Jemimah Irankunda, Rose Kabagyeni, Blessed Kitentera, Irene Mahirwe, Hellen Mbonye, Nirere Fancy Brenda, Niyikiza Louise, Allen Nkurikiye, Aphia Nyiramahoro, and Eva Twireze.
Before meeting the president, candidates will undergo COVID-19 testing, as confirmed by NRM Deputy Electoral Commission chairperson, John Kigyagi Arimpa.
Kigyagi emphasized unity among candidates, stating they need guidance on campaigning without causing divisions based on ethnicity, religion, or sectarian tendencies.
After the meeting, candidates will resume campaigns, including rallies in three sub-counties instead of two, to compensate for lost time.
Tadeo Mujyambere, NRM district election officer for Kisoro, warned candidates to adhere to party electoral rules, citing violations since the campaign’s start.
Issues include disregarding procession rules, campaigning beyond permitted hours, using unauthorized public address systems, and exceeding allowed vehicles in convoys.
Candidates addressed voters in Kisoro Municipality, outlining promises.
Jemimah Irankunda committed to inspiring youth, highlighting shopping challenges faced by neighboring countries’ residents.
Grace Akifeza focused on healthcare improvements, pledging better facilities and equipment.
Fancy Nirere emphasized tourism potential, promising infrastructure improvements and attraction promotion.
Rose Kabageni called for calm, urging candidates and voters to avoid spreading false information.
“This by-election came about due to a tragic loss, and divisions should not mark it,” she stated.
