Lumumba Cell in Nabweya Ward, Northern City Division, Mbale City, witnessed dramatic scenes during the Local Council elections as tensions flared, warning gunshots were fired, and security forces intervened before the electoral process was successfully concluded with an NRM victory.
The closely contested race pitted Mudebo Safiyi Nangoli of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) against Masuba Adam of PLU and independent candidate Nagumesi Kalifani. What began as a routine election exercise quickly turned chaotic when disagreements arose over the voting process. Confusion emerged after some residents started lining up behind candidates before their names had been verified on the voters’ register, sparking disputes among supporters of the rival camps.
As emotions intensified, verbal exchanges escalated into physical confrontations, prompting police intervention. Security personnel fired warning shots into the air to disperse the crowd and restore calm as they rescued an individual who was reportedly being assaulted. Voting was temporarily suspended as authorities worked to contain the situation and prevent further violence.
Order was later restored following the arrival of Mbale City election officials led by Michael Alinaitwe. Assistant Returning Officer Joseph Wambuzi reassured residents that the electoral process would continue in accordance with the law. Officials undertook fresh voter verification and called out names from the register before voting resumed peacefully.
When the final votes were counted, Mudebo Safiyi Nangoli of the NRM emerged victorious with 166 votes, defeating Masuba Adam of PLU, who garnered 69 votes, while Nagumesi Kalifani received 5 votes. The declaration of results sparked jubilant celebrations among NRM supporters, who broke into song and dance to mark the victory.
Also present at the polling station was Mbale City Woman MP and Minister Lydia Wanyoto Mutende. Speaking after the exercise, she observed that voter turnout had significantly improved, attributing the increased participation to the introduction of the stamp voting system. She called upon residents to embrace unity after the election and focus on working together for the development and progress of their community.
Later on served them with a delicious meal as a sign of Unity and togetherness calling all those who never made it to stay strong and serve since leadership is not only achieved while in the seat and later on pledged to work hand in hand with them to ensure that service is rendered to the people of Nabweya.
