A political rally in Buwama Sub-county, Mpigi District, descended into chaos earlier today as supporters of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) clashed with backers of an independent candidate, resulting in a fistfight that disrupted scheduled campaign activities.
The confrontation occurred when Shallon Murungi Kaweesi, an independent candidate contesting the Mpigi District Woman Member of Parliament seat, and her supporters attempted to join the campaign procession of Martine Ssejjemba, the NUP candidate for Mawokota South.
The move drew immediate objections from a section of NUP supporters, who insisted the party already had an official candidate and incumbent, Teddy Nambooze. Eyewitnesses reported that tensions escalated rapidly, culminating in a physical altercation that temporarily halted the rally. Party officials and security personnel struggled to restore order as the melee unfolded.
Murungi, who opted to run as an independent after failing to secure the NUP nomination, has repeatedly faced warnings from party leadership. NUP officials have consistently urged members to refrain from supporting candidates who lost the party ticket, emphasizing the importance of party unity ahead of the elections.
The situation was further complicated by the Electoral Commission’s campaign schedule, which had earmarked both Ssejjemba and Murungi to hold rallies simultaneously in the same sub-county and parishes, including Bulunda and Bunjakko. Political analysts suggest that the overlapping schedules contributed to heightened tensions and ultimately the clash between supporters.
By press time, no arrests had been reported, though local authorities are monitoring the situation closely to prevent further incidents. The skirmish highlights the growing volatility of campaign events in Mpigi District, where political rivalries and the rise of independent candidates are reshaping the electoral landscape.