13 eye NRM ticket for Kisoro Woman MP by-election

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KISORO - The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has nominated 13 contestants to vie for the party's ticket for November's Kisoro Woman MP by-election.

The party primaries will take place on October 15.

The seat fell vacant early September after the death of Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, who was also the defence state minister.

The race is now on to replace her, with 13 women in the NRM party interested in the position.

But first, they will have to tussle it out internally to determine who carries the party's flag in the November 14 by-election.

Dr Tanga Odoi, who chairs NRM's electoral commission, said the nominated contestants were this time tasked with carrying out joint campaigns in a bid to save resources.

By doing so, the party also has in mind preparations for the 2026 general elections, which will start next year.

For now, the party hopes to reclaim the seat previously occupied by Nyirabashitsi, who died at the age of 50 at Mengo Hospital in Kampala.

Thirteen women have expressed interest in the NRM ticket for the Kisoro Woman MP by-election. (Credit: Isaac Nuwagaba)

On his part, Odoi pledged to conduct free and fair primaries. "We will ensure transparency and accountability throughout the process."

The nominated contestants are Grace Akifeza Ngabirano, Sylivia Dushime, Winfred Faith Igiraneza, Jemimah Irankunda, Rose Kabagyeni, Blessed Kitentera, Irene Mahirwe, Hellen Mbonye, Fancy Brenda Nirere, Louise Niyikiza, Allen Nkurikiye, Aphia Nyiramahoro and Eva Twizera.

Ruth Nyiraneza Mateke, the sister of the late legislator and minister, pulled of the race for unknown reasons.

Further afield, the National Unity Platform (NUP) has fronted Salim Tana Mukankwaya as its flagbearer while independent Christine Mbabazi will also vie for the seat.

The Electoral Commission chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, released the programme for the November by-election.

Councillors on various local government councils in Kisoro district will also be elected.

The nomination of candidates will be conducted on October 30-31 at the Office of the District Returning Officer of Kisoro.

Successfully nominated candidates will then conduct campaign meetings for 12 days: November 1-12.

Polling and tallying of results for the byelection of councillors representing special interest groups will take place on November 11.

The polling day for the district Woman MP and other local government councillors will be conducted on November 14.