By Jamillah Kemigisa
Thousands of supporters turned out on Saturday in Bunyangabu District to welcome Sarah Kabarokole, days after her official nomination to contest for the Woman Member of Parliament seat on the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ticket.
The rally, which began at the Bunyangabu–Kabarole border and moved through all 15 sub-counties and 48 parishes, concluded at the Kibiito Market Playground. Organizers described the turnout as a sign of growing momentum around Kabarokole’s candidacy, though observers say it also reflects the heightened political interest as the 2026 general elections draw near.
Kabarokole, a former independent candidate, was nominated on June 18, 2025. Her return to the race under the NRM banner has drawn both support and scrutiny, as she positions herself against the incumbent Woman MP and State Minister for Gender and Culture, Hon. Dr. Peace Regis Mutuzo, as well as other candidates including Hon. Dr. Basemera Nesta and Hon. Kabugho Mackline.
In her address to supporters, Kabarokole focused on themes of unity and inclusive leadership.
“Tribalism divides us and hinders progress,” she said. “I am ready to work with everyone — NRM or not — because Bunyangabu comes first.”
Her campaign priorities include infrastructure development, especially road repair; improving health and education services; expanding agricultural value chains; boosting household incomes; and promoting inclusive welfare for vulnerable groups.
“Bunyangabu is a food basket. Our people work hard. I will fight to find them markets and investors so that their sweat is not wasted,” she said.
While Kabarokole’s campaign drew significant attention, political analysts note that her entry adds further intensity to an already competitive race. Hon. Dr. Mutuzo, the incumbent, maintains strong support in various parts of the district, bolstered by her ministerial role and established presence in NRM structures.
Kabarokole’s return to the party, after previously contesting independently, has also sparked mixed reactions within the NRM ranks. Some party loyalists view her comeback as a show of reconciliation and strength, while others question the consistency of her political alignment.
The rally attracted a wide mix of participants including youth, elders, women’s groups, and religious leaders. Whether the show of support will translate into votes remains to be seen, especially with multiple high-profile candidates vying for the same seat.
As the 2026 elections approach, Bunyangabu’s Woman MP race is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests in the region — with issues of leadership, service delivery, and party loyalty all in sharp focus.
