All candidates are rallying under the promise of delivering “a new Ntungamo,” but the campaigns unfold amid lingering public frustration following a recent round of party primaries marred by violence and allegations of irregularities.
As the week kicks off, the town is buzzing with last-minute campaign activities. Political observers note that the surge in voter engagement follows the dramatic loss of two incumbent Members of Parliament during last week’s parliamentary primaries—a rare upset in Ntungamo's political landscape.
"Voters in Ntungamo are shifting from traditional loyalty to performance-based choices," says political analyst Edward Natamba.
"If you haven’t delivered over the years, they will remove you and choose someone who can meet their expectations."
Natamba also noted the growing role of money in local politics, saying, "In previous elections, voters looked at what a candidate could bring them. Now, they expect money. It’s become a trend—almost like a disease—where financial influence determines electability. The recent parliamentary losses sent a clear message: candidates must meaningfully engage voters or risk being rejected."
The mayoral race includes incumbent Jacobs Jaka Jex Kafureeka, who has held the office for 15 years, alongside challengers Isa Kazimbaya and Stempson Kamwesigye.
In the LC5 contest, incumbent Samuel Muchunguzi is facing off with Naboth Mpirirwe and John Kabeeho, all of whom have pledged to improve service delivery and pursue structural development across the district.
Despite the campaign momentum, many residents remain skeptical of the integrity of the election process, citing fears of violence and electoral malpractice similar to what was witnessed during the parliamentary primaries.
"The problem is with the outcome of the election," says one resident. "We ask the government and the NRM registrar to intervene. The people we vote for are not the ones declared winners."
Another voter expressed frustration: "Elections in Ntungamo are all about fights. People fight as they line up behind candidates."
Fred Bahumwiire, a resident of Ruhama, dismissed the process entirely. "These NRM elections are a waste of time. The ones who win are not the ones announced."
Several others echoed similar concerns, pointing to beatings during the voting process.
"We are tired of violent elections," one said. "We are beaten as we vote. If this continues, we shall stop voting."
"In Ntungamo, elections mean getting beaten," added Robert Kagulu. "I believe even on Thursday, we shall be beaten again."
Amid the public concern, incumbent mayor Kafureeka has urged for a peaceful election while expressing confidence in his performance.
"I ask my people to vote for me for another term," he said. "I’m ready for Thursday’s election. I have stood with my people and supported them in all sectors—education, infrastructure, health, and more."
He added that he has instructed his supporters to avoid any form of violence during the polls.
"I’ve told my supporters we don’t want the kind of chaos we saw during the MP elections. I want this election to be peaceful."
As voting day draws closer, the spotlight remains on Ntungamo, not just for the candidates on the ballot, but for how the election is conducted—and whether the electorate will trust its outcome.