MITOOMA, UGANDA – Ruhinda South Member of Parliament, Hon. Captain Mugabe Dononzio Kahonda, has attributed ongoing political confusion among constituents to interference from external forces and influential figures not resident in the area.
Speaking at the launch of his 2026 election campaign in Mutara Town Council on Sunday, 16th November 2025—with the main rally held at Bukongoro—Hon. Kahonda claimed that unnamed “big names” had entered local politics to sow discord.
He dismissed his declared rivals as less significant, insisting the real threat comes from those calling themselves “Lions of Ruhinda,” whom he accuses of attempting to undermine the independence and electoral rights of Ruhinda South’s residents. Kahonda recounted the struggle to have Ruhinda South annexed from Ruhinda County in 2017, a process he said faced resistance from these same interests.
The MP also criticized members of parliament from other constituencies who, he said, were interfering in Ruhinda South’s affairs and stalling local development. He referenced rumors of a “lion producing lionesses,” vowing that such figures would not be permitted to dominate his constituency.
Several voters, speaking anonymously, alleged that Kahonda’s unnamed opponent is a former MP who has harbored resentment since losing to Kahonda in the 2016 elections, and is accused of spreading propaganda and fueling division.
With Ruhinda South now in its eighth year as a distinct constituency, Hon. Kahonda unveiled a manifesto promising improved services, food security, and wealth creation. He is contesting as an Independent after losing the recent NRM party primaries to Atuhwereire Arthur Kazoora—a contest he says was marred by bribery, external interference, and irregularities.
This development highlights continued internal tensions within the NRM party and the struggle for political dominance in newly created constituencies. The persistent allegations of external interference and irregularities in primaries may influence voter perceptions and the credibility of the 2026 elections in Mitooma district.
