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Kiyonga Launches Parallel Campaign; Wangalima Calls Out NRM EC While Kabbyanga Stays Unfazed Amid the Chaos
Kiyonga’s team should stop the provocation. I have not removed or touched any of his campaign posters during my rallies. If I were to respond equally, I could but I abide by the law. I shouldn’t be provoked to act otherwise. Kabbyanga
Ivan Kaahwa
With three candidates vying for the Bukonzo West parliamentary seat, only two have consistently traversed the constituency engaging voters with their plans and commitments.
These are Godfrey Kabbyanga Kiime Baluku and Wangalima Milton who have jointly campaigned across Kithoma & Isango Trading Centres, Kyogha & Kalehe Trading Centres and Kamukumbi & Kyempara playgrounds. One candidate however remains conspicuously absent from these joint campaigns Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, the Chancellor of Makerere University.
Rival candidate Wangalima Milton has openly questioned Kiyonga’s continued absence accusing the senior NRM cadre of defying the party secretariat’s guidance. “Everywhere we go, it’s only Kiyonga’s portrait we see not the person. It beats logic,” Wangalima said; emphasizing that Kiyonga’s absence alongside fellow NRM contenders is tarnishing the party’s image.
He further stated that his joint campaign efforts with Hon. Kabbyanga aim to uphold NRM unity and transparency.
When contacted, the NRM Electoral Commission confirmed that Dr. Kiyonga has been cleared to hold parallel campaigns. Wangalima hit back sharply, saying: The NRM should clarify whether there are boys and men in this Bukonzo West race.”
Meanwhile, Hon. Godfrey Kabbyanga, the current State Minister for National Guidance appears unfazed. He remains focused on his “Mission 2026” with a promise to leverage his parliamentary position to attract development for Bukonzo West.
During a rally at Kamukumbi, both Kabbyanga and Wangalima pledged to improve electricity connectivity in the area as part of their commitment to service delivery.
However, tensions flared at Kyempara Playground when a group of residents waving Kiyonga’s posters attempted to disrupt the joint campaign. As Kabbyanga and Wangalima addressed voters, Kiyonga’s supporters shouted from a distance. In response, Kabbyanga urged calm, saying: “Kiyonga’s team should stop the provocation. I have not removed or touched any of his campaign posters during my rallies. If I were to respond equally, I could but I abide by the law. I shouldn’t be provoked to act otherwise.”
The NRM Electoral Commission has registered rising tensions in some areas, including Isingiro South and Bwamba Counties where campaigns have been suspended. The Commission has also cautioned candidates against involving the UPDF in political activities.
Despite the political drama joint campaigns in Bukonzo West have largely remained peaceful and respectful. #IvanKaahwaReports