Independent candidate Emmanuel Sentaro Byamugisha has been sworn in as Mayor of Kabale Municipality for a third consecutive term, marking the beginning of the 2026–2031 political term.
The swearing-in ceremony for Byamugisha and 28 councillors was held at Kabale Municipal Stadium following the recent elections. The ceremony was presided over by Kabale Chief Magistrate, His Worship Derrick Byamugisha.
Byamugisha won the mayoral race with 8,270 votes. His closest challenger, Arinaitwe, garnered 5,292 votes, while Ian Ronald Mugisha received 203 votes and Evarist Hussein Monday secured 94 votes.
Speaking shortly after taking the oath, Byamugisha pledged to continue lobbying for development projects aimed at transforming the municipality and improving service delivery.
He revealed that a new infrastructure project under the Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development Programme is in the pipeline. The project is expected to focus on tarmacking roads in Bugongi, Kirigime, and Nyabikoni wards.
“Improved road networks will ease transport and business, boost urban development, and attract investment,” Byamugisha said.
The mayor also urged residents of Greater Kabale to appreciate the appointment of leaders from the region to key government positions, saying such appointments create opportunities for local development.
He singled out the State Minister for Finance, Planning and Economic Development (General Duties), Hon. Henry Musasizi, who is also the MP for Rubanda East, for his contribution to the development of the Kigezi sub-region. Byamugisha praised Musasizi for supporting government programmes and expressed hope that he would be reappointed.
“I want to call upon councillors and other leaders to prioritize unity and cooperation in order to serve residents effectively,” Byamugisha stated.
Minister Henry Musasizi commended Kabale Municipality for conducting peaceful elections and electing leaders focused on development.
“Government plans are underway to rehabilitate traditional schools across Kigezi in order to improve education standards and infrastructure. Many old government-aided schools require renovation and upgrading,” Musasizi said.
He urged the newly elected leaders to work together across political lines to promote development and ensure accountability in the implementation of government programmes.