Mubende, Uganda – Tensions in Kasambya Constituency escalated into violent clashes yesterday between supporters of two rival NRM parliamentary aspirants, Henry Muhumuza and incumbent MP David Kabanda, leaving multiple people injured and property destroyed.
Muhumuza’s convoy returning from a campaign event clashed with Kabanda’s supporters near Kyentulege Trading Centre.
Gunfire was exchanged, injuring Gumisiriza Rogers (shot in both legs) and Fred Muhumuza (stabbed in the abdomen and back).
Three vehicles (including two from Muhumuza’s team) and a motorcycle were torched.
"We tried to flee, but our cars were blocked and set ablaze. I was shot twice while running for my life," said Gumisiriza, now hospitalised at Mubende Regional Referral Hospital.
Kabanda, who survived the attack, accused Muhumuza’s supporters of instigating the violence: "My team was ambushed. They attacked us with machetes and guns, even burning our vehicles."
However, Asafu Kamayanga, a Muhumuza ally, claimed Kabanda’s supporters provoked the clash by tearing NRM campaign posters.
Mubende Police confirmed investigations but made no arrests yet.
Hospital director Dr. Onesmus Kibaya reported: "Two critically injured victims are stable, but one gunshot victim requires urgent surgery."
With NRM primaries ongoing, local leaders urge restraint: "This violence undermines democracy. Security forces must act decisively," said Kigando SubCounty Chairperson.
