Political temperatures in Mityana District continue to rise as aspirants from different parties intensify their campaigns, often trading accusations and sharp words as competition tightens ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Although the main contest remains between the ruling NRM, which is determined to reclaim influence in Mityana, and the NUP, which seeks to consolidate its 2021 victories, a new wave of independent-leaning actors and disgruntled party members has added fresh complexity to the district’s political landscape.
Observers say friction is expected during an election season, but in Mityana it has spiralled into open verbal exchanges, aggressive mobilisation and competing narratives aimed at influencing undecided voters.
Rivalry between the dominant parties has intensified, with several candidates resorting to confrontational messaging that often overshadows their policy proposals.
Prominent political figures including Joyce Bagala Ntwatwa, Richard Lumu, Francis Zaake, David Kalwanga and Judith Nabakooba have frequently faced tough questions from voters on the campaign trail, reflecting the simmering tension on the ground.
NRM candidates say they have reflected on why the party lost ground in 2021 and claim they have already begun correcting past mistakes.
Joseph Luzige, an NRM flag bearer, said the party has identified solutions and is confident of a stronger showing in 2026.
Across the district, the scramble for votes has grown more intense, with some candidates openly attacking rivals, particularly those on the opposition side.
Voters in several areas express frustration that personal insults are overshadowing meaningful engagement on service delivery.
Judith Nabakooba urged aspirants to prioritise issue-based politics, saying leaders should spend less time attacking each other and more time explaining their plans.
Mityana Woman MP Joyce Bagala rejected accusations that she has engaged in abusive campaigning, arguing that her critics are attempting to distract voters from her performance.
Bagala said her campaign focuses on service delivery and accountability, and dismissed allegations of abusive behaviour as attempts to “paint her black.”
The escalating hostility has drawn concern from religious leaders.
During celebrations to mark 44 years of the Kiyinda–Mityana Catholic Diocese, Bishop Anthony Zziwa urged political actors to avoid insults and promote unity.
He reminded candidates that political seasons come and go, but communities must continue to live together long after elections end.
Political commentator Richard Kyambadde warned that reckless rhetoric could create divisions that persist beyond the electoral period.
He encouraged voters to assess candidates based on competence and their ability to deliver tangible services rather than on emotionally charged exchanges.
In the 2021 general election, Mityana’s parliamentary seats were shared among three parties: NUP secured three constituencies, DP won Mityana South, and NRM retained Mityana North.
As the 2026 campaigns unfold, the district has emerged as one of Buganda’s most competitive battlegrounds, with tensions expected to shape the trajectory of the contest.