Hoima District Woman Member of Parliament Harriet Businge has accused her political rival, Suzan Asiimwe, of unleashing violence on her supporters during a youth football tournament held in Kibugubya village, Kyabigambire Sub-county.
Speaking to the press at her home in Rukoge village, Hoima City, Businge alleged that Asiimwe hired goons who attacked her supporters at the “Oru Baby Baby Youth Tournament,” injuring several and damaging her vehicles.
“This day was marked and recognised by FUFA and the Hoima District Football Association. Now because she comes from Kyabigambire, she feels bad when we have support there,” Businge said.
“She knows her character that made her leave Hoima many years ago. She was supposed to have been arrested for cruel acts that even led to bloodshed. Now she is back—not even her own family supports her.”
The visibly emotional MP claimed the attack was part of a deliberate attempt to reintroduce violence into Hoima politics.
“In Hoima, we have always been peaceful. She has been in Kampala with NUP, now she wants to bring her violence into NRM Hoima—that will not work,” Businge declared. “I have the biggest youth gang. If I had commanded them, that day we would have had bloodshed. But I am not that kind of leader.”
She called on police to investigate the matter thoroughly and urged her supporters to remain calm.
“I urge my people to stay peaceful even when provoked,” she added, wiping away tears.
However, Suzan Asiimwe has dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated.
“Really? My team attacking Businge? I’m surprised. That cannot happen,” Asiimwe said. “It is shameful that even an incumbent is looking for sympathy like this.”
The alleged incident occurred during the Oru Baby Baby tournament, which Businge has been organising across sub-counties in Hoima. The event has drawn significant youth participation, potentially boosting her grassroots appeal.
Albertine region police spokesperson Julius Hakiza confirmed that a report had been filed and that investigations were underway.
“You know it is a political season. People have different tricks. Businge’s team reported the matter and our officers are on the ground investigating. We will provide updates on our findings,” Hakiza said.
With political tensions rising ahead of the 2026 general elections, observers are warning that early signs of violence and personal attacks could undermine peaceful democratic engagement in Hoima and the wider Bunyoro region.