By Jamillah Kemigisa
In a resounding victory that marks a significant shift in local politics, Kato Hussein was yesterday elected as the new National Resistance Movement (NRM) District Chairperson of Bunyangabu. His triumph, with 341 votes compared to Ikagobya Moses’s 135, cements his reputation as a unifying leader committed to service and inclusive development.
“I am deeply humbled to receive 82% of the vote,” Kato declared in his victory speech. “This election has proven that Bunyangabu can rise above tribal lines. I’m a Mutooro, our General Secretary Muhindo Fenson is a Mukonzo, and our Finance Secretary Ambrose Katabazi is a Mukiiga. That shows Bunyangabu is united.”
A Victory for Inclusivity and Merit
Kato’s decisive win has been interpreted as a clear rejection of tribal-based politics in favor of leadership rooted in performance and inclusivity. Throughout his campaign, he emphasized the importance of transparent service delivery, fair representation, and collective progress—messages that resonated powerfully with voters across the district’s diverse ethnic communities.
The newly elected NRM district mainstream committee reflects this spirit of inclusivity:
- Vice Chairperson: Rwabulinda Harriet – 298 votes
- General Secretary: Muhindo Fenson – 253 votes
- Secretary for Publicity: Happy Stephen – 312 votes
- Secretary for Finance: Katabazi Ambrose – 404 votes
These leaders, drawn from different ethnic backgrounds, underscore Bunyangabu’s growing embrace of merit over tribal loyalties.
Strong Mandates, Clear Messages
Re-elected Secretary for Publicity, Happy Stephen, acknowledged the fierce competition and the determination of voters to move beyond divisive politics. “A lot was said to derail us, but voters chose truth over noise,” he remarked. “The time for empty slogans is over. We want an NRM of action, one that transforms roads, schools, and services.”
Katabazi Ambrose, who secured one of the largest vote margins in the race for Secretary for Finance, pledged to ensure equitable distribution of resources. “There will be no discrimination—whether you’re a man or woman, Mukonzo or Mutooro, we all deserve equal development,” he said.
Women’s League Election: Challenges and Victory
The Women’s League election also highlighted the shifting landscape in Bunyangabu. Dr. Basemera Nesta, a prominent Woman MP aspirant, secured the Women’s League Chairperson seat despite an initial dispute caused by confusion over voter streams. After the issue was resolved, she was declared the winner and promised to champion grassroots empowerment and gender equity.
“I’m here to build from the ground up, to bring services to the lowest level and fight for the vulnerable woman,” Dr. Basemera said. “Affirmative action must go beyond speeches—we must act.”
A Smooth Transition and New Ambitions
Outgoing NRM District Chairperson Musinguzi Peter, who did not seek re-election and is now eyeing the LC5 seat, congratulated the new leadership team, particularly Kato, for their vision and determination. “I’ve worked with a great team and I’m proud of what we’ve built,” Musinguzi said. “To the new leaders—tighten your grip and steer this district forward. NRM must grow stronger, not weaker.”
A Message to Uganda: Merit Over Tribe
Beyond Bunyangabu, Kato’s victory carries a powerful message to Uganda as a whole: tribal divisions must not dictate leadership. Instead, competence, inclusivity, and a commitment to public service are what voters demand.
“Let’s never again be divided by appearance or history,” Kato emphasized. “This is not just about me—it’s about what we can achieve together as one people.”
Background: Bunyangabu’s Political Significance
Established in 2017 after being carved from Kabarole District, Bunyangabu is home to the Batooro, Bakonzo, and Bakiiga communities. It has become a symbol of ethnic coexistence and political transition within the Tooro sub-region. The district’s politics have long been shaped by both historical rivalries and a growing commitment to unity.
The National Resistance Movement (NRM), Uganda’s ruling party under President Yoweri Museveni, holds periodic internal elections to select leaders from the village level up to the district level. These leaders are instrumental in mobilizing support, representing local interests, and ensuring party cohesion.
The 2025 NRM elections in Bunyangabu are especially significant, coming just months before the anticipated 2026 national elections. Observers have seen Bunyangabu as a bellwether district—a place where shifting voter priorities and the strength of the NRM’s internal structures are tested.
A New Chapter for Bunyangabu
As Kato Hussein steps into his role as District Chairperson, expectations are high. His message of unity and development has already inspired confidence across the district. In a region once fraught with tribal divisions, Bunyangabu is now poised to lead by example—showing that inclusive leadership can bring real progress.
“We are ready to work,” Kato affirmed. “This is a new Bunyangabu. We are one.”
