Lwengo District – The ongoing NRM party primaries in Lwengo District have been marred by logistical delays and disagreements, as candidates and local leaders express frustration over the failure to conduct joint campaigns (kakuyege) as initially planned.
The NRM Electoral Commission had directed candidates to conduct joint campaigns to minimise divisions and reduce costs. However, logistical delays and alleged poor coordination by party officials in Lwengo have made this impossible.
Many aspirants, including those seeking the LC5 seat and parliamentary candidates, have been forced to campaign individually in their respective subcounties. Some candidates have accused the NRM district leadership of sabotaging the joint campaign initiative.
Incumbent MP Isaac Ssejoba (Bukoto MidWest) made allegations of favouritism and unfairness in the election process. He claimed that some candidates are being unfairly favoured, which he believes undermines the integrity of the election. Ssejoba called on Dr. Tanga Odoi, the Chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission, to intervene urgently and ensure fairness.
Logistical shortages have plagued the NRM district electoral committee, causing delays in providing necessary campaign materials. This has left some candidates struggling to mobilise voters, as they lack transport, posters, and voter registers.
Kiyimba Emmanuel, a Bukoto MidWest MP aspirant in a yellow shirt, expressed disappointment, stating, “We were promised joint campaigns, but nothing has been arranged. Now, we must campaign alone, which is expensive and divisive.”
Lubega Joseph Bazoonona (LC5 aspirant, in yellow shirt):
"The NRM leadership has failed us. We are forced to mobilize on our own, yet the party expects unity."
Lukyamuzi Mohammad (LC5 aspirant, in blue overalls):
"If the party cannot organize properly, how can we trust them to oversee free and fair elections?"
Shamim Kavuma Nyinamashilling (Woman MP aspirant, in gomesi):
"Women candidates are especially affected because we lack resources for separate campaigns."
Hajji Muyanja Mbabaali (Bukoto South MP aspirant, in cream shirt):
"We demand transparency. The party must explain why joint campaigns were abandoned."
Hon. Isaac Ssejoba (Bukoto MidWest MP, in yellow kanzu) warned:
"If the NRM fails to enforce fairness, we risk losing supporters to opposition parties. The electoral commission must act fast."
Ssemwezi Umar (Lwengo District NRM Electoral Head, in blue coat):
"We are prepared to conduct joint campaigns as soon as materials arrive. Delays are due to logistical challenges, not sabotage."
He also warned that anyone opposing NRM guidelines risks disqualification, as the party’s constitution mandates unity in campaigns.
