Chaos in Kawempe! Museveni Fumes as NRM Suffers Embarrassing Defeat—Vows to Crush ‘Vote Thieves’
Kampala – Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has ordered an investigation into alleged election fraud in the recent Kawempe North by-election.
The ruling party, the National Resistance Movement (NRM), suffered a major defeat as Erias Luyimbazi Nalukoola of the National Unity Platform (NUP) won the election.
Museveni Alleges Election Fraud
In a statement on Sunday, March 16, Museveni highlighted reports of ballot stuffing, result tampering, voter intimidation, and ballot box destruction, especially in Kazo-Angola and Mbogo Mosque Zone.
He vowed to punish those responsible, calling these actions part of Uganda’s long-standing election challenges since 1961.
Election Results
Luyimbazi secured 17,764 votes, winning with 64.37% of the total votes. NRM’s candidate, Faridah Nambi, finished second with 8,593 votes (31.2%).
NRM Rejects the Results
The NRM has officially rejected the election outcome, citing widespread fraud. The party plans to challenge the results in court, arguing that the election process lacked credibility.
Museveni stated that reports of ballot stuffing, result alterations, ballot box destruction, voter intimidation, and illegal campaigning at polling stations had emerged.
He also defended the heavy deployment of security forces, saying the army intervened due to disorderly behavior by some opposition groups.
Museveni’s Message to NRM Members
Museveni urged NRM leaders not to engage in election fraud, even if opposition parties allegedly do so. He encouraged them to gain voters’ trust by serving Ugandans well.
“NRM members should not cheat just because the opposition does it. We must end this disenfranchisement. That is why NRM fought for change,” he said.
He added that election fraud has hurt Uganda’s democracy, making leaders focus on staying in power instead of solving citizens’ problems.
Push for Free and Fair Elections
Museveni reaffirmed his commitment to fair elections, emphasizing the use of biometric verification to prevent fraud.
“Ballot-stuffing has been happening since 1961. This has caused Uganda’s instability. Leaders ignore citizens’ needs because they know they can cheat to stay in power. This must stop. That’s why we insist on biometric verification,” he said.
The investigation into the by-election could impact Uganda’s political landscape, as the ruling party seeks to address concerns over election integrity.
Chaos in Kawempe! Museveni Fumes as NRM Suffers Embarrassing Defeat—Vows to Crush ‘Vote Thieves’
