Seven contenders have officially entered the race for Bugabula South constituency in Kamuli District, marking one of the sub-region’s most anticipated contests ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Absent from the lineup is incumbent Henry Maurice Kibalya, alongside former representatives Asuman Kiyingi and ex-LCV chairperson Thomas Kategere.
The field includes PFF stalwart Proscovia Night Salaamu Musumba; Matayo Bazanya of the ruling NRM; Andrew Muwanguzi of NUP; and Ronald Kabanda of the FDC.
They are joined by independents Robert Gwaivu and Sanoni Dhizala.
In recent years, politics in Bugabula South has been influenced by the rivalry between Speaker of Parliament Anita Among and First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga, a feud largely centred on the NRM Central Executive Committee position of National Vice Chairperson (Female).
The divide has produced two local factions: “Team Maama,” loyal to Kadaga, and “Team Mulamu,” aligned with Among—whose marriage to Budiope East MP Moses Magogo gave rise to the Lusoga nickname.
Kibalya’s decision not to run has generated speculation. While he has repeatedly denied claims of disloyalty to Kadaga, political insiders say he risked a significant defeat.
His withdrawal has opened the political space for old rivals, including Kiyingi, who represented the constituency for two terms after defeating Musumba in 2006.
Kiyingi’s career has been defined by heated contests, among them the disputed 2010 NRM primary, which he lost to Kibalya by a razor-thin margin—17,171 votes to 16,974.
He rejected the results, accusing Kadaga of influencing the outcome.
Though he reclaimed the seat as an independent in 2011, his 2016 defeat deepened political fractures that continue to shape local alliances.
Bazanya, currently seen as the NRM frontrunner, has solidified his position through close ties with Kadaga. His prominence surged after attending her CEC campaign launch in Kamuli, held under the slogan “No Kadaga, No Vote.”
There, he pledged support to the First Deputy Prime Minister and emerged strongly from the party’s grassroots elections.
But analysts warn that his reliance on Kadaga’s backing may not be enough. Political commentator Tito Ikanga noted that “allegiance is not transferable,” cautioning that Kadaga’s supporters may not automatically rally behind her preferred candidate.
Bazanya has also faced criticism for failing to reconcile with primary opponents or engage new voting blocs.
Musumba’s return introduces a fresh dynamic. Once one of Kadaga’s fiercest critics, she is now positioning herself as a reform candidate focused on integrity and public interest.
“I come in to restore public trust in leadership, be your voice, eyes and hand,” she said when confirming her candidacy.
“The 12th Parliament is for political fortunes. It is transitional. It is not business as usual, so people should choose service and not flags.”
Observers say Musumba brings experience and a reputation for analytical detail, qualities they argue could sharpen Busoga’s representation.
Political analyst Jacob Semuwulu said she offers “political maturity, effective representation and strong articulation of national issues,” adding that she complements Kadaga’s broader influence in the region.
As nominations close and campaigns prepare to begin, Bugabula South is shaping up to be one of the most keenly watched parliamentary races of 2026.
With shifting loyalties, seasoned contenders and the high stakes of Busoga politics, voters are bracing for a decisive and unpredictable contest.
