A tragic incident in Uganda’s Kabale District has raised concerns about political tensions within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party.
On May 6, 2025, Silvano Bikorwomuhangi, an NRM supporter from Bugo village, Musamba parish, Rubaya Sub County, was found dead following his participation in the party’s grassroots elections.
According to Kigezi sub-region police spokesman Elly Maate, Bikorwomuhangi voted for Wilber Turyazayo, who was contesting against Henry Tumwijukye for the position of LC I Chairman.
Turyazayo emerged victorious. After the election, Bikorwomuhangi joined other supporters at Musamba trading centre to celebrate. However, he never returned home.
The following evening, his body was discovered along a footpath leading to his second wife’s residence.
Police have arrested three individuals to assist with the investigation.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to aid in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Rubaya LCIII Chairman Nelson Atukwase highlighted that the deceased was related to the losing candidate, Tumwijukye, and had refused to vote for him.
Atukwase called for a review of the current voting method, which involves lining up behind candidates, suggesting a shift to secret ballots to reduce potential animosity and violence.
