Story by Obed Kankiriho
A group of parliamentary hopefuls in Kisoro District has raised concern over what they describe as increasing political impunity and the rampant commercialization of elections, warning that these trends threaten the integrity of leadership and public service delivery.
Their concerns come ahead of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries set for July 16, 2025, with joint campaign activities kicking off next week.
Speaking at a press conference held at Bamboo Gardens, Bufumbira South MP aspirant Derrick Kwiringira condemned acts of sabotage such as the removal of campaign signposts, which he attributed to hired agents.
He said such incidents reflect a deeper problem of money-driven politics that favors influence over merit.
Kisoro Municipality parliamentary aspirant Sam Byibesho echoed similar concerns, stating that the pressure to pour money into campaigns has discouraged many candidates and distanced elected leaders from their communities.
He urged fellow aspirants to uphold integrity and put the interests of citizens first, even in tense political climates.
The candidates called on the NRM leadership and electoral bodies to ensure a level playing field and to take firm action against electoral malpractice as the primaries approach.
