By Spy Uganda
Fort Portal, Uganda – August 7, 2025: The NRM Election Disputes Tribunal has officially dismissed two consolidated petitions challenging the victory of Hon. Alex Ruhunda in the recently concluded NRM Primary Elections for the Fort Portal Central Division parliamentary seat, reaffirming his position as the duly elected NRM flag bearer.
In a ruling dated August 6, 2025, the Tribunal chaired by John Musiime, with Ms. Diana Kasabiiti (Panel Head) and members Ampaire Tumwebaze and Hillary Kabiswa, concluded that there was no sufficient evidence to prove that electoral irregularities substantially affected the results.
The Petitions and Allegations
The Tribunal was handling Consolidated Petitions No. 039 & 198 of 2025, filed by:
- Muhenda Ronald (PT 039)
- George Stephenson Kagaba (PT 198)
Both petitioners alleged that the July 17, 2025 NRM Primaries were marred by serious irregularities:
- Denial of Declaration Forms
- Falsification of results
- Voting beyond stipulated hours
- Intimidation of voters
- Presence of underage and unregistered voters
- Failure to implement the NRM Joint Campaign Guidelines
Muhenda Ronald, who came second with 3,309 votes, and Kagaba, who polled only 26 votes, claimed these anomalies severely distorted the outcome, which saw Ruhunda declared winner with 4,796 votes.
Kagaba specifically protested the failure by the NRM Electoral Commission to enforce the joint campaign roadmap, which he argued disadvantaged new contenders like himself.
Tribunal Ruling: Petitions Dismissed
The Tribunal, however, ruled that both petitions lacked merit, concluding:
“Having found no evidence to support the claims of irregularities that affected the declared result, this issue is answered in the negative… The Petitioners are not entitled to the reliefs sought.”
It further stated:
“The declaration of Mr. Ruhunda Alex as the duly elected NRM flag bearer for Fort Portal Central Division Constituency is upheld.”
A 3-Decade Political Giant
With this ruling, Hon. Alex Ruhunda cements his legacy as a political colossus in Fort Portal. Having served in Parliament since 2011, Ruhunda is not just a politician but a community transformer whose name is synonymous with empowerment, service delivery, and innovation.
From Firewood to Modern Kitchens: A Legacy of Development
Over the years, Ruhunda’s leadership has transitioned rural households from charcoal and firewood cooking to modern kitchens. He has spearheaded:
- Massive water extension projects
- Rural electrification and solar initiatives
- ICT education funding and training centers
- Support to school-going children and bursary schemes
- Household income empowerment through SACCOs and agri-funding
His impact stretches across Rwenzori region, elevating communities from poverty to dignity.
Founding KRC and Media Empire
Before his parliamentary journey, Ruhunda made a name as the founder of KRC (Kabarole Research Centre), a cornerstone in civic engagement and community empowerment.
He later founded KRC Radio and most recently, KRC TV, which officially opened on August 1st, 2025, as a regional voice for development, culture, and Pan-African dialogue.
Education and Career Background
Born and raised in Fort Portal, Ruhunda is an alumnus of Makerere University, where he graduated with a degree in Social Sciences, majoring in Political Science and Development Studies. His early career as a researcher and policy analyst laid the foundation for his later political roles.
Why They Love Him
The electorates continue to rally behind Ruhunda for one key reason: impact. Whether it’s clean water in Karago, electricity in Nyabukara, or student bursaries in Kagote, Ruhunda’s presence is felt, seen, and appreciated.
As he heads into another term in Parliament, Ruhunda is not just defending a seat — he is defending a legacy built over 30 years of selfless service.
With the Tribunal’s verdict now public, Ruhunda’s political machine is back in full throttle — his challengers subdued, his record intact, and his constituency roaring behind him.
“The rest is background noise,” Princess Ruth Komuntale, a supporter was overheard saying in FortPortal City this morning.
Indeed, for Hon. Ruhunda, this isn’t just a win — it’s vindication.
