NRM election: Industrial hubs chief defeated in Sheema
Kamugisha was trounced by Kashozi division LC3 chairperson Hakim Mugabe with 91 votes, against 34.
Kashozi division LC3 chairperson Hakim Mugabe who defeated Presidential Projects and Industrial Hubs director Eng. Raymond Kamugisha. (Photos by Bruno Mugizi)
Bruno Mugizi
Journalist @New Vision
________________ Presidential Projects and Industrial Hubs director Eng. Raymond Kamugisha who was defeated by Mugabe Hakim.
Presidential Projects and Industrial Hubs director Eng. Raymond Kamugisha, has once again suffered a political setback after losing the race for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party vice chairperson seat for Sheema Municipality.
In a tense and closely watched election held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Sheema Municipal Council offices, Kamugisha was trounced by Kashozi division LC3 chairperson Hakim Mugabe with 91 votes, against 34.
Speaking shortly after the announcement of the results, Kamugisha conceded defeat and pledged to support the new leadership. However, he expressed concern over what he described as electoral malpractice and voter suppression.
“Some of my supporters were denied access to the voting area and there was clear intimidation,” Kamugisha told reporters.
“This kind of conduct undermines the democratic process. Nevertheless, I respect the outcome and I’m committed to working with the elected committee for the good of our party.”
Kamugisha’s defeat marks yet another failed attempt in his political career. In 2016, he contested for the Sheema North parliamentary seat against then health minister Dr Elioda Tumwesigye, but lost. Two years later, in 2018, he again faced off with Tumwesigye for the NRM flag-bearer position for Sheema Municipality in vain.
However, Mugabe Hakim dismissed Kamugisha’s allegations, instead accusing his rival of trying to influence voters with money.
“This election was free and fair,” Mugabe said. “Kamugisha tried to bribe voters, but even when money changed hands, the people stood by their principles and voted for me. That’s the kind of political maturity our party needs.”
He added that his victory was a reflection of the people’s trust and pledged to use his new role to promote party unity and development in Sheema Municipality.
“I am grateful to the delegates for trusting me with this position. I will serve with transparency and dedication to ensure the NRM remains strong and united at the grassroots level,” Mugabe stated.
The election attracted widespread attention within the district, given Kamugisha’s high-profile national role and previous political ambitions.
Sheema municipality mainstream NRM structure.
- Chairperson-Dicksons Kateshumbwa
- Vice Chairperson-Mugabi Hakim
- General Secretary-Nuwarimpa Johnbabrlon
- Treasurer-Katwiromunda Steven
- Publicity secretary-Zeliba Nangumya