Grace Akifeza claimed a sweet victory in the Kisoro Woman By-election, last week, and will replace the late Sarah Mateke in the Eleventh Parliament.
This was a hotly contested race where some of the also-rans such as National Unity Platform's Salim Sultana gave hope to those following from socia media.
But the race proper was a two-horse affair between eventually winner Akifeza and NRM flag bearer Rose Kabagyeni.
Several key issues are shaping the election debate in Kisoro, with unfulfilled presidential pledges topping the list.
These include promises made by President Museveni, such as the establishment of the John Kale Memorial Institute in Nyakabande Subcounty to honour the late John Muhima Karekyezi, father of former IGP Kale Kayihura, for his Pan-Africanist contributions.
Another promise was to make Murora Subcounty a model area following its recognition as the best voter majority in Kigezi during the 2016 election.
Additionally, the president pledged to build a tarmacked road linking Kyahafi, Kayumbu, and Mugahinga to create a tourism circuit. None of these promises have been fulfilled.
Furthermore, the split of Kyahafi and Murora Subcounties has left Murora without a designated headquarters.
Tourism infrastructure remains a major concern, with key roads like Kisoro - Rubuguri - Nteeko, Rubuguri - Katojjo - Kabaale, and Nteeko - Buhoma (linking Kisoro to Kanungu) still in poor condition.
Despite Kisoro’s rich natural attractions—such as Mount Muhabura, part of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Lake Mutanda—the roads to these areas remain in a deplorable state.
Another pressing issue is the refugee situation, given Kisoro’s proximity to the Congo border. Local residents have expressed concern over the limited capacity of transit centers at Nyakabande, which has led to refugees freely mingling with the local population.
While Uganda’s open refugee policy is generally praised, this has created tensions between the two groups.
Social services are also a key focus for voters. The electorate is pushing for Nyakabande Health Centre to be upgraded to Health Centre IV status to better serve both local and refugee communities.
Additionally, access to clean water and education remain major concerns.
These issues, among many others, are central to the ongoing election.
