Residents of Nyamunuka Town Council in Kajara County, Ntungamo District, celebrated the election of Yasin Byamukama Katafa as their new LC3 chairperson and town mayor, with jubilant gatherings marked by cheers, ululations, cultural songs, and traditional dances.
The victory celebrations took place at Kyabashenyi Church grounds, where supporters described Katafa’s win as a turning point for the town council and a promise of renewed hope and development.
Cultural dancers performed enthusiastically, reflecting the community’s joy and optimism.
Fahad Nsamba, Youth Chairperson of Nyamunuka Town Council, praised the inclusive nature of the victory: “People say that youth are NUP, but it’s different here. No more opposition. We have challenged this norm and are ready to take this country forward as youth in NRM.”
Katafa was officially declared the winner earlier in the day by Ntungamo District Electoral Commission Returning Officer Charles Wafula.
He secured 3,305 votes, defeating his closest rival, Kitunzi Urban of PFF, who received 280 votes. Some residents crossed party lines to support him, citing confidence in his leadership.
Matia Mulumba, a voter, said: “I had to tick the NRM just because of Yasin. We are hopeful in you. However, in Nyamunuka we need a public toilet and our market to be restored. Yasin, listen to our requests.”
NRM Chairman Gordon Muhumuza Kabanza lauded the community for their support, saying: “I thank you for showing much love for NRM. You voted highly for the NRM candidates. We want to expand NRM from grassroots and make it stronger. We must build Nyamunuka and make it develop stronger.”
In his address, Katafa thanked God, his supporters, family, and campaign team. He called for unity, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence among residents, emphasizing leadership based on equality, mutual respect, and inclusivity.
Several councillors, including Hawa Nasanga and Brian Tukundane, joined the celebrations, pledging support to the new chairperson in delivering services to the community.
Katafa, who previously served as Speaker of Nyamunuka Town Council, pledged to address persistent challenges including poor access to clean water, unemployment, understaffed health centres, and weak infrastructure across the council’s 61 villages.
Residents expressed hope that Katafa’s leadership would translate into tangible development, improved livelihoods, and restored confidence in local governance.