Defeated NRM village chairpersons refuse to hand over leadership in Mayuge

What the report says

Several defeated NRM village chairpersons in Mayuge District are refusing to hand over office after the July 28 village council elections, saying the vote was affected by alleged irregularities. According to Nile Post, the dispute involves leaders from several villages who argue that the announced results did not reflect the wishes of residents and that the process lacked fairness and transparency.

Among those leading the protest are Fredrick Wagabaza of Mainha Village in Mpungwe Sub-county, Swaibu Mukuyi of Buwolya Village in Buwaya Sub-county and Isa Lwakala Isabirye of Bulubudhe Village in Malongo Sub-county. The former chairpersons say they have already petitioned electoral authorities, but were told to seek redress in court. They maintain that they will stay in office until the complaints are addressed, and some have objected to newly declared winners being sworn in.

Wagabaza said he has been a long-time supporter of the NRM and is frustrated that the party and state leaders have not intervened. He appealed to Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara, Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba and President Yoweri Museveni to help resolve the dispute. John Kayima, the former chairperson of Bulondo Village, said he would not surrender the village stamp and wants fresh elections instead.

Mayuge District Electoral Officer Anna Ahebwa said the Electoral Commission declares results based on returns submitted by polling officials and that dissatisfied candidates should go to court. The dispute is significant because it reflects ongoing tensions over local election credibility and the transition of grassroots leadership in the district.