Hon. James Mbahimba Defeats Veteran Politician Dr. Chrispus Kiyonga in Landslide Victory at Kasese NRM Conference

By Hason Mutunzi Bwambale

KASESE – In a dramatic political shift, Hon. James Mbahimba, the former Ugandan Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo, defeated long-time political heavyweight Dr. Chrispus Kiyonga in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) District Delegates Conference held at Kasese Multi-Purpose Hall.

Hon. Mbahimba secured a landslide victory, clinching the NRM district chairmanship after earning the overwhelming support of nearly 1,000 delegates. The conference, which stretched late into the evening due to lengthy delegate verification processes, marked a decisive moment in the district’s political landscape, signaling a generational transition in leadership.

Dr. Kiyonga, who has led the party’s activities in Kasese for over three decades, gracefully conceded defeat and pledged his support for the new leadership.

A Graceful Exit

Speaking to this publication moments after the results were announced, Dr. Kiyonga, a seasoned statesman and former Minister of Defense, acknowledged the verdict of the delegates and expressed no regrets.

“I want to thank the people of Kasese and all NRM supporters who have walked this journey with me for 30 years. Today, they have spoken clearly, and I respect their choice,” he said. “Hon. Mbahimba is like a younger brother to me. I congratulate him and urge the party members to remain united. This was not a war; it was a family decision.”

Kiyonga emphasized the need for harmony within the party ranks and encouraged members to rally behind the new leadership as they prepare for the forthcoming general elections.

Mbahimba’s Pledge for Renewal

In his victory speech, Hon. Mbahimba struck a tone of gratitude and forward-looking optimism. He thanked the delegates for their trust and vowed to rejuvenate the NRM’s structures in the district, with a strong focus on youth mobilization and grassroots engagement.

“This victory is not mine alone—it belongs to all those who believe in the future of the NRM in Kasese,” Mbahimba said. “We are starting a new chapter. I will work tirelessly to return vibrancy to our party structures and to recruit and empower young people. The youth are not just the future; they are the present.”

He added: “I also commit to delivering victory for the NRM across all key electoral positions in the upcoming general elections. Our unity and strategy will be our strength.”

A New Dawn for Kasese NRM

Mbahimba’s triumph marks a significant political transition in Kasese, a district where the NRM has faced stiff competition in recent election cycles, particularly from opposition parties such as the FDC. His election is seen by many within the party as an opportunity to rebuild its grassroots appeal and strengthen its organizational capacity in the region.

The conference, which drew delegates from all corners of the district, was lauded for its transparency and peaceful conduct. Security was tight but unobtrusive, and both candidates commended the party’s electoral commission for a well-managed process.

Looking Ahead

As Kasese gears up for the general elections, all eyes will be on how Hon. Mbahimba translates his decisive victory into electoral gains for the ruling party. Political observers say his fresh leadership style, diplomatic experience, and grassroots connections could reinvigorate NRM’s presence in the region.

The change of guard also sets a precedent within the party, signaling that even long-serving leaders must contend with the winds of internal democracy and generational change.

“This is just the beginning,” Mbahimba remarked. “Let us work together, for Kasese and for the NRM.”