Kabale heats up as 2026 MP campaigns kick off

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Kabale district political campaigns for the 2026 General Election are in high gear as parliamentary campaigns officially commenced on November 10, 2025. The process has ignited fresh political excitement across the Kigezi region, an area historically known for sharp political contestation and occasional sectarian voting patterns.

From Kabale Municipality to Ndorwa East and Ndorwa West constituencies, the district is buzzing with colourful posters, party flags, and energised rallies as candidates battle for support ahead of the 2026 general elections.

This year’s election season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive. The NRM primaries intensified the political climate, with several defeated aspirants opting to run as independents, further widening the field.

Political analysts say key campaign issues will revolve around economic growth, healthcare, education, poverty reduction, and service delivery. Voters are closely scrutinising the candidates’ manifestos, engagement styles, and development track records.

KABALE MUNICIPALITY PARLIAMENTARY SEAT CANDIDATES

Dr Nicholas Thaddeus Kamara – People's Front for Freedom (PFF)

(Incumbent). Kamara’s campaign emphasises consolidating achievements in the health sector, improving municipal infrastructure and expanding educational support as Kabale prepares for city status.

Andrew Aja Baryayanga – NRM flag-bearer

A former legislator (2011–2021), Baryayanga is running under the NRM banner. He pledges to strengthen party structures, promote unity, and accelerate service delivery and development within Kabale Municipality.

Jessy (Jassy) Aine – Forum for Democratic Change (FDC)

The FDC candidate is focusing on inclusive development, community barazas for accountability, and harnessing tourism potential to stimulate local economic growth.

Dan Musinguzi Nabaasa – Independent

A lawyer and businessman, Musinguzi is campaigning on visionary leadership, improved education and health facilities, and modern infrastructure to support Kabale’s transition to city status.

Alex Edgar Muhwezi – Independent

Running under the “Radio” symbol, Muhwezi is prioritising youth employment, better healthcare and education, and representation for marginalised communities.

William Bakashaba – Independent

A newcomer in the municipal political arena, Bakashaba promises innovative ideas, modern governance approaches, and practical solutions to community challenges.

NDORWA WEST CONSTITUENCY PARLIAMENTARY RACE

Eliab Naturinda Mporera – NRM flag-bearer

Mporera, a Kampala-based lawyer and entrepreneur, secured the NRM ticket after defeating incumbent David Bahati in a tense primary. His campaign focuses on leadership renewal, accountability, unity, and strengthened household incomes.

David Bahati Kwesiga – Independent

The incumbent MP and State Minister for Trade is seeking re-election as an independent following his primary loss. Bahati is running on a message of continuity, experience, and increased government engagement in Ndorwa West.

Others are Matsiko Gilbert Bigwera and Abomugisha Boaz Rugirehe. 

NDORWA EAST CONSTITUENCY PARLIAMENTARY RACE

Wilfred Niwagaba – Independent (Incumbent)

Niwagaba continues to position himself as a people-centered leader advocating for transparency, better education and health funding, and agricultural support.

Dr Protazio Begumisa – NRM Flag Bearer

After winning the NRM primary, Begumisa is fronting a campaign of accountable service delivery, party unity, and improved infrastructure across Ndorwa East.

Alexander Kyokwijuka – Independent

Popularly known as “Amasiko ga Ndorwa East,” Kyokwijuka is prioritising youth empowerment, women’s involvement in development, improved road networks, and better market access for farmers.

Milton Kwesiga – Independent

An environmental activist who left the NRM citing internal corruption, Kwesiga is running on a platform of transparency, good governance, and environmental sustainability.

And Akampumuza James Rutanga is an enrolled practising Advocate of the Courts of Judicature of Uganda.

Woman MP race draws seven candidates

Kabale District is also witnessing a fierce contest for the Woman Member of Parliament seat, with seven candidates—ranging from political veterans to first-time contenders—entering the race.

Catherine Ndamira – Independent (Incumbent)

After losing the NRM primaries to Enid Origumisiriza, Ndamira is seeking re-election as an independent. She is banking on her parliamentary record, grassroots networks, and experience.

Enid Origumisiriza – NRM Flag Bearer

A former contender who lost in 2021, Origumisiriza’s victory in the NRM primaries has revitalized her political journey. Her return has energized NRM supporters and set the stage for a showdown with Ndamira.

Grace Ankunku Bwesigye – Independent

A veteran who has contested Ndorwa East for over 20 years, Bwesigye has now shifted her ambitions to the Woman MP seat, hoping her long-standing involvement in politics yields success.

Rosette Asiimwe – PLU-Affiliated (Independent)

Linked to the PLU pressure group, Asiimwe is appealing to reformists and younger voters seeking new leadership approaches.

Trancy Ninsiima – Independent

Having previously challenged Minister David Bahati for the Ndorwa West MP seat, Ninsiima has redirected her political focus. She seeks to reinvent her image and broaden her appeal across the district.

Immaculate Kaggwa – Independent

A former NRM-leaning figure who opted out of the 2025 party primaries, Kaggwa hopes her reputation for integrity and strong community ties wins over undecided voters.

Trust Kyomugisha – Independent

A former radio journalist at Voice of Kigezi, Kyomugisha is making her political debut. Her communication skills and connection with the youth have strengthened her grassroots mobilisation.

Campaigns across Kabale have so far been peaceful and well-organised. Security agencies are working closely with teams from all candidates, while the Electoral Commission continues to monitor compliance with campaign regulations.

As the 2026 general elections draw closer, attention now turns to how candidates sustain their momentum, articulate their promises, and convince the electorate that they hold the vision and ability to steer Kabale toward progress.

Kabale’s political landscape is set for a historic and decisive vote—one that will define leadership in the Kigezi region for years to come.