Burnet Mbabazi Wins NRM Kikuube LC5 By-election Primaries Amid Rival's Protest

Philip Burnet Mbabazi has emerged as the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer for the upcoming Kikuube District Local Council Five by-election, slated for June 18, 2026. The official declaration came late Friday night after the conclusion of NRM party primaries held across the district.

Registrar Pascal Musuga announced Mbabazi as the winner at the Kikuube Town Council tally centre, stating he secured 23,279 votes, or 58% of the total cast. His closest competitor, Paddy Kisembo, garnered 16,459 votes (41%), with Dickson Tushabe and Valentino Rubasharaza trailing.

Mbabazi, son of retired Major General Matayo Kyaligonza, now carries the ruling party’s mantle for the seat that became vacant following the tragic death of former chairperson Peter Banura Araali in a road accident on April 4, 2026. The primaries saw participation across 335 villages in seven sub-counties, with 91,488 registered voters.

Despite acknowledging the exercise was largely free and fair, Mbabazi noted minor issues such as supporter harassment and alleged distribution of illicit items. The process, however, was marred by controversy as Paddy Kisembo rejected parts of the results, citing irregularities, particularly in Buhimba Town Council, Buhimba Sub-county, and Buhuka Parish. Kisembo has declared his intention to contest the by-election as an independent candidate.

Fred Jachan Omach, Vice Chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission, urged unity among party members post-primaries. The Uganda Electoral Commission is scheduled to begin nominations for the by-election on May 25-26, with the general election to follow on June 18.

Read more: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/burnet-mbabazi-declared-nrm-flag-bearer-for-kikuube-lc5-by-election-amid-resistance-from-rival-5468916