Experience versus fresh leadership in Kabale mayoral contest
Incumbent Emmanuel Sentaro Byamugisha is seeking a third consecutive five-year term. Byamugisha, who has been in office since 2016, is contesting as an independent candidate.
Polling is expected to take place peacefully on January 27, 2026, as the Electoral Commission and security agencies finalise preparations for the exercise
KABALE - Kabale municipality is abuzz with political activity as voters prepare to elect a new leader in the division mayoral elections scheduled for January 27, 2026.
The race has attracted three candidates, setting up a tightly contested election marked by intense campaigns, public debates and growing voter interest across the municipality.
Incumbent Emmanuel Sentaro Byamugisha is seeking a third consecutive five-year term. Byamugisha, who has been in office since 2016, is contesting as an independent candidate.
He was officially nominated on September 10, 2025, and has based his campaign on his track record in service delivery and infrastructure development.
Among his key achievements, Byamugisha says he lobbied for over shillings 23 billion for the construction of Kabale Central Market and over shillings 21 billion for road upgrades under the Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID) programme. In his 2026–2031 manifesto, he has pledged to push for city status for Kabale municipality, improve road infrastructure, expand access to water and electricity, and upgrade Kamukira Health Centre IV into a mini-hospital.
Challenging the incumbent is National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer Sam Arinaitwe, a familiar figure in the municipality and the wider Kigez region, known for his active engagement in community and religious activities.
His campaign focuses on strengthening urban governance, improving service delivery, and aligning municipal development with the ruling party’s national agenda.
Also in the race is Ronald Ian Mugisha, popularly known as “Coach Barca.” Mugisha is the Kabale district local council deputy speaker and a councillor representing the southern division.
He is also widely known for his involvement in local football, a factor that has boosted his popularity among the youth. Mugisha has positioned himself as a fresh alternative, emphasising youth empowerment, accountability, and grassroots leadership.
As campaigning intensifies, the political mood in Kabale Municipality remains vibrant, with residents expressing keen interest in the outcome of the election.
Political analysts predict a closely fought contest, as voters weigh experience against new leadership ideas.
Polling is expected to take place peacefully on January 27, 2026, as the Electoral Commission and security agencies finalise preparations for the exercise.