Police in Kisoro District are investigating a case of unlawful wounding following a violent political clash that erupted on November 12 at Gasiza Trading Centre in Nyarusiza Sub-County, Bufumbira South.
According to Kigezi region police spokesperson ASP Elly Maate, the victims—Nelson Tumwesigye, Silvan Habyarimana, and Ronald Sibomana—are all residents of Nyarusiza Sub-County.
Preliminary reports indicate that the clash occurred as Sam Bitangaro, contesting the Bufumbira South parliamentary seat as an independent candidate after losing the NRM party flag, was en route to a scheduled rally at Kwanyakwezi Trading Centre.
As Bitangaro and his supporters passed through Gasiza, they were allegedly attacked by supporters of Alex Niyonsaba, the ruling NRM flag-bearer. The assailants reportedly wielded pangas, bottles, and sticks, leaving several injured, some seriously.
ASP Maate condemned the violence, stating: “The political clash was unnecessary because there was a program that was made for all candidates. Police shall not sit and watch people behave as if there is no rule of law. All the suspects identified to have participated in this clash must be apprehended and prosecuted accordingly.”
The District Police Commander promptly deployed officers to the scene. Victims were rescued and evacuated to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention. Police have documented the crime scene and identified several suspects, with arrests pending as investigations continue.
Maate emphasized that political rivalries must not be used to justify violence, reiterating the police’s commitment to upholding the law.
This incident underscores rising political tensions in Kisoro ahead of the 2026 general elections, as candidates and their supporters increasingly mobilize across the region. Authorities have urged all political actors to adhere to scheduled programs and maintain peace to prevent further confrontations.