In a constitutional manner where refilling the vacant place needs for a free and fair elections. This for couple of weeks have been a hint in Hoima for District LC5 seat refilling. The events leading up to the election in Hoima were marred by heated debates and controversies as various political parties vied for victory.
The situation escalated on March 17th when Kadiri Kirungi, the Chairperson LC5 Hoima, tragically passed away in a road accident on the Kampala-Hoima road. This unfortunate incident prompted the Electoral Commission to set election dates and allowed political parties to register their flag bearers to contest the vacant seat.
Among the candidates were Uthman Mugisha Mubaraka, the late chairperson’s son, representing the NRM, Moses Aguuda for the National Unity Platform (NUP), Patrick Musinguzi for FDC, and Lenox Mugume as an Independent candidate.
Ultimately, MS Mereb Kasande the Returning officer Hoima district declared Uthman Mubaraka (NRM) as the winner. Emerged as the winner, securing 18,353 votes. However, NUP candidate Patrick Aguuda(3,972 votes) raised concerns about the legitimacy of the results, alleging vote rigging, brutalization of voters, and police involvement.
FDC’s Patrick Musinguzi garnered 271votes, while Lenox Mugume, an independent candidate, managed to secure 197 votes. Mayor Makindye Division Hajji Murya Nyama accused the police of engaging in vote rigging and transporting ballot boxes openly, urging the people of Hoima to remain vigilant and observe these actions.
Rosemary Ssenindye congratulated the NRM winner, Uthman Mubaraka, but criticized NUP members for not accepting the election results.
Paul Bukenya, the Electoral Commission spokesperson, stated that the voting and overall election process proceeded smoothly with a peaceful conclusion, thanking the security forces for ensuring safety throughout the process.
