Mbarara RCC Warns Mayor Kyabwisho, Rival Mugume Against Fueling Violence
By Amos Tayebwa, Mbarara
The Deputy Resident City Commissioner (RCC) for Mbarara City North Division, Jackline Kankunda, has warned Division Mayor Gumisiriza Kyabwisho and his rival Benon Mugume against fueling violence and provoking their supporters.
Kankunda said the two political opponents have repeatedly turned public gatherings into scenes of confrontation, trading verbal insults and at times nearly coming to blows whenever they meet.
“A few weeks ago, the NRM Election Tribunal nullified Kyabwisho’s victory and upheld Benon Mugume as the duly elected NRM flag bearer for Mbarara City North. Since then, the rivalry between the two has intensified even before the official campaign season begins,” Kankunda noted.
The clashes most recently played out during a baraza meeting at Kamukuzi, where Kyabwisho accused Mugume of “buying the flag” from the tribunal in Kampala, insisting that he remains the rightful winner on the ground.
Mugume, however, dismissed the accusations, urging Kyabwisho to respect the NRM party and the tribunal’s decision.
“Why don’t you concede defeat and rally behind us if you are truly a party member? If you claim I bought the flag, you should also go and buy it. I didn’t buy anything—people voted me,” Mugume said.
Addressing the two leaders at the meeting, RCC Kankunda cautioned them to end the personal attacks and instead focus on issues that matter to their constituents.
“I urge Kyabwisho and Mugume to stop provoking each other during public meetings. These barazas are meant to address community concerns, not political fights. Stop inciting violence into your supporters,” she warned.
Kankunda further reminded the politicians that the ruling NRM party does not “sell flags” in Kampala, as alleged, and urged both camps to concentrate on their manifestos and service delivery.
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