Musician Mbonigaba clinches Kisoro Municipality mayoral seat

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A political upset has rocked Kisoro Municipality following the victory of popular Kisoro-based musician and radio presenter John Mbonigaba, commonly known as John King, who won the mayoral race as an independent candidate.

The election, held January 27, 2026, had attracted widespread attention in the days leading up to polling. The contest was marked by allegations of voter bribery, intimidation and vote buying involving some candidates. Despite the tense atmosphere, the exercise concluded peacefully and delivered a decisive outcome, defying predictions of a closely fought final tally.

In official results released by Kisoro district returning officer Daniel Nayebare, Mbonigaba secured 4,189 votes, representing 60.20 per cent of the total votes cast. His support cut across the municipality, with victories in nearly all of the 35 polling stations, signalling strong grassroots backing.

The National Resistance Movement flag bearer, Alex Nambajimana, finished second with 1,798 votes, accounting for 25.85 per cent. He was followed by Ramadhan Ndikuyeze with 808 votes, Caleb Tuyishime with 106 votes, Muhumuza Emmanuel with 39 votes, and Owen Ahimbisibwe of the People’s Front for Freedom, who trailed with 18 votes.

While declaring the results, returning officer Nayebare congratulated the winner and urged him to prioritise improved service delivery, particularly in addressing persistent infrastructure challenges within the municipality. He cited the poor state of roads along Mutanda Street, Garage Street and New Park, which frequently flood during the rainy season, disrupting transport and business.

In his post-election remarks, an emotional Mbonigaba expressed gratitude to voters for the confidence they had placed in him. He also thanked his fellow contestants for participating in a peaceful electoral process and appealed to them to set aside political differences for the good of the municipality.

Mbonigaba emphasised the importance of unity and pledged to work with all stakeholders to improve service delivery, promote transparency and drive development across Kisoro Municipality.