The political landscape in Kamwenge District is uncertain for opposition parties following the recent general elections, where they failed to secure any leadership positions.
Several opposition leaders said they are grappling with rebuilding party structures, citing limited support from their national offices and what they describe as political intimidation at the local level.
Unicent Ariganyira, the National Unity Platform (NUP) registrar for Kibale East and the party spokesperson in Kamwenge District, described the situation as challenging for opposition leaders.
Ariganyira, who contested for the district councilor seat representing Ntonwa Sub-county but lost, claimed that the election process was unfair and that his votes were manipulated.
“The NRM leaders in Kamwenge fought strongly against us, and in my case the votes were rigged,” he said in an interview.
He further explained that the lack of support from the party leadership to reorganize and strengthen grassroots structures has weakened the opposition’s ability to compete effectively.
“Without support to rebuild the party structures, it is difficult to know whether the opposition can recover and compete effectively in future elections,” Ariganyira noted.
According to him, the opposition failed to win a single leadership position in Kamwenge, leaving many party supporters and leaders discouraged.
Ariganyira also alleged that opposition figures face hostility and marginalization in local governance.
“Opposition leaders in Kamwenge are disrespected and humiliated. The government views us as enemies of development and a threat, which affects our ability to mobilize and work freely,” he said.
Political analysts say that rebuilding strong grassroots structures will be critical for opposition parties to regain influence in Kamwenge and similar districts in future elections.
