Dramatic NRM Primaries in Mbale and Sironko: Tears, Violence, and Political Betrayal

MBALE CITY – The NRM party primaries in Mbale turned into a scene of heartbreak and drama as losing candidates broke down in tears while others celebrated victory amid accusations of unfair play.  

In Bugema B Village, one defeated candidate was spotted sobbing in a corner after vote counting went against him, with a police officer stepping in to console him. Other candidates stood alone, abandoned even by their own families, with no supporters behind them—not even their wives or children.  

While some rejected the results, claiming the process was neither free nor fair, others jubilated, declaring their triumph. NRM Mbale City Chairman, John Wekesa Wambogo, acknowledged minor incidents but insisted the elections were largely peaceful. Deputy RCC Bajja  praised the overwhelming turnout, stating, "This shows people still trust the NRM party." 

Meanwhile, in Sironko District , chaos erupted as the Minister of State for Karamoja Affairs, Hon. Nambonzo Floralce, rejected the election results, leading to violent clashes before police intervened.  

The minister, who expected to run unopposed for the Women’s League Chairperson position in Bukomba Cell, Mutufu Town Council, was shocked to find another candidate, Nalubega Aisha, contesting against her. She accused the NRM Sironko District Chairman, Mr. Lumolo , of orchestrating the move to undermine her.  

"I am being fought from all corners, but with God, I will win," Nambonzo declared, urging Sironko residents not to fear Lumolo, warning that "if left alone with his family, Sironko will never change." 

In a tense meeting mediated by NRM spokesperson Emmanuel Dombo, Nalubega was offered a job to step down but refused, insisting on letting voters decide. The minister saw this as proof that Nalubega was a pawn in Lumolo’s scheme to disrupt the elections.  

With voting set to be repeated soon, the political drama in Sironko is far from over.  

Will the minister reclaim her seat, or has Lumolo’s plot already shaken her grip?