By Ivan Mugisha
Asiimwe Chripas Mugisha, an independent candidate in the Kibale East parliamentary race in Kamwenge District, has vowed to stay in the contest despite pressure to step down for the incumbent, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries.
His declaration follows a recent NRM reconciliation and harmonization meeting chaired by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament and NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda. The engagement aimed to persuade independent candidates who lost in the party primaries to rally behind officially endorsed NRM flag bearers ahead of the 2026 General Elections.
While several independents have reportedly withdrawn from various races as a result of the meeting, Mugisha insists that he will not be among them. He argued that he has the competence and vision required to effectively represent the people of Kibale East in Parliament.
Mugisha said his decision is based on a commitment to offer alternative leadership to voters, and he expressed confidence that the electorate will choose the candidate who best addresses their needs and priorities.
