The Hoima LC5 by-election campaigns have reached a critical juncture, with the National Unity Platform (NUP) party leader, Mr. Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, and prominent members of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) preparing for a showdown.
The campaign period, which began on September 1, is now in its final stretch as candidates make their last-ditch efforts to secure the support of the 100,396 registered voters.
The by-election is scheduled for September 14, following the vacancy created by the tragic death of Kadiri Kirungi in a road accident on March 17.
As the campaign period draws to a close, both the NUP and NRM camps have mobilized their respective party leaders to rally behind their candidates.
The NUP campaign is spearheaded by Mr. Moses Aguuda, the party’s candidate in the race, who confirmed that their camp would receive support from NUP party leaders from headquarters, starting today.
NUP President Mr. Kyagulanyi will be in Hoima District for two days to campaign.
Mr. Aguuda expressed confidence in Kyagulanyi’s ability to influence voters, stating that “his words are convincing.”
They anticipate a surge in support for their candidate due to his visit.
On the other hand, the NRM has established a strong presence in Hoima District, with Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and other influential figures joining the campaign trail since last Thursday.
Other NRM leaders include party National Vice Chairman Moses Kigongo, NRM Deputy Secretary General Rose Namayanja, and Director for Mobilization Rosemary Sseninde, among others.
The NRM’s Director for Communications and Public Relations, Mr. Emmanuel Dombo, revealed that they invited their national party chairman, President Museveni, to visit Hoima District on the last day of the campaign to drum up support for their candidate.
Mr. Dombo expressed hope that the Electoral Commission would avoid scheduling Mr. Kyagulanyi’s visit on the same day as President Museveni’s to prevent a recurrence of the violent incidents that occurred during the Arua City by-election in 2019.
However, Mr. Aguuda alleged that NRM leaders want the Electoral Commission to change the campaign schedule to block Mr. Kyagulanyi from campaigning in Hoima.
The Hoima District Returning Officer, Ms. Merab Kasande, clarified that she had not received any official communication as of Sunday morning regarding changes to the campaign program.
The Hoima District Police Commander, Mr. Jackson Bogere, emphasized that security forces are prepared to provide security for all candidates, regardless of their political affiliations.
He urged candidates to adhere to their respective campaign schedules and assured that security arrangements for Mr. Kyagulanyi in Hoima District would be in line with those provided in other regions, with the priority being to ensure his campaign activities proceed safely.