The elections for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) LCI flag bearers and village party structures commenced smoothly in Nakaseke District, with many villages opting for consensus to select representatives.
However, tensions erupted in several areas of Nakaseke Central, particularly regarding the LCI chairmanship positions.
According to the district’s NRM registrar, Paul Tandeka, disputes arose in villages such as Kakinzi, Katooke, Katuugo, Butuuti Katakala, Kyasampanga, Katuugo, and Nakyesawa.
The chaos stemmed from individuals not listed in the official party register, commonly referred to as the “yellow book”, attempting to participate in the voting process—an act Tandeka confirmed as illegal.
“Most of the youths who caused the disturbances were not in the register but insisted on voting,” Tandeka said. “This delayed the process and forced us to call in police to restore order.”
In Kakinzi Village, of the 301 registered voters, only 70 turned up. Francis Beizire emerged as the NRM LCI flag bearer after securing 54 votes, defeating his rival Fred Mabunda, who garnered 16 votes. Addressing his supporters, Beizire urged unity, stating, “Let’s forget the election challenges and work together to bring NRM back to the top in Nakaseke Central. Remember, NUP took it from us in the previous elections.”
However, challenges persisted across the district. In Katooke Village, Wakyato Subcounty, Abdallah Ssentongo won the LCI flag bearer seat with 83 votes, defeating Ndawusi Brian. Ssentongo said, “We lined up, and people chose me. Mr. Ndawusi accepted the outcome and stepped down.”
Despite his victory, Ssentongo’s leadership was met with opposition from some village youths. Sulaiman Ssali, who was not in the yellow book, criticised the voter register, alleging that names of deceased individuals remained while genuine members were excluded.
“It’s as if they removed our names intentionally,” he complained, threatening to leave the party.
Another voter, Steven Mukiibi, questioned the selection process, expressing concern over electing leaders with less authority and lower education levels.
In a related development, State Minister for Kampala, Joseph Kabuye Kyofatogabye, who is also vying to represent Nakaseke Central in Parliament, was elected NRM Chairperson of Bulamazi Village, Kitto Subcounty.
Kyofatogabye condemned the disruptions caused by unregistered voters and emphasized the importance of adhering to party guidelines.
“We had ample time to prepare. The directive was clear: only those in the yellow book should vote. Allowing everyone previously compromised our strength and gave room to the opposition,” he said.
The minister also called on the community to support the newly elected leaders and ensure that the structuring process progresses without further hindrance.
As the NRM prepares for broader electoral battles, unity and discipline within its grassroots structures remain critical to its strategy in reclaiming influence in Nakaseke Central.