Tensions have flared once again in Sembabule District following a deadly outbreak of political violence in Lwemiyaga County, underscoring the region’s long-standing reputation for volatile election cycles.
One person was shot dead and two others — including area MP Theodore Ssekikubo — were injured on Thursday evening during a campaign rally at Kirega Trading Centre.
The violence erupted when supporters of MP Ssekikubo clashed with those of his rival, Brig (Rtd) Emmanuel Rwashande, who is vying for the NRM party flag ahead of the 2026 general elections.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident began when Ssekikubo’s team requested that Rwashande’s camp lower loud music to allow the MP to speak — a request that was flatly denied.
The situation quickly escalated when armed soldiers, reportedly part of Rwashande’s security detail, attempted to disperse the crowd. Upon resistance, they allegedly opened fire, killing a man identified only as Ssembusi.
MP Ssekikubo was shot in the finger by a stray bullet, and another supporter sustained a head injury during the ensuing chaos.
Lwemiyaga Police Station’s officer-in-charge, Mr Paul Kanganve, condemned the military’s actions, calling the use of force “unnecessary” and “tragic.”
Brig Rwashande’s campaign is reportedly supported by influential figures, including retired Maj Gen Phenehas Katirima and Michael Toyota Nuwagira — President Museveni’s younger brother and chairperson of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU).
His high-profile backing has further intensified political friction in the region.
Sembabule has a troubled history of political unrest. In 2010, Ssekikubo made headlines for overturning electoral materials in protest of alleged vote rigging.
Just last month, the NRM district chairperson primaries were suspended after violent clashes erupted between rival camps backing Minister Anifa Kawooya and Gen Katirima.
The Lwemiyaga race remains highly competitive, with several NRM-leaning aspirants in the running, including former minister Joy Kabatsi, John Patrick Kateeba, Edmond Bwire Nuwagaba, Geofrey Tumusiime Ndengana, Migadde Juugu Amooti, and Kato Jacob Mwesigye. Dr Asaph Tumwebaze is contesting as an independent.
NRM electoral commission chairperson Tanga Odoi has urged restraint from all candidates and supporters, warning that the continued violence is damaging the party’s image ahead of the 2026 general elections.
As political campaigns gather momentum, observers fear Sembabule may once again become a hotspot for electoral instability if urgent interventions are not made.
