KIBUKU: Clan elders back Museveni-backed Wakida to oust incumbent Mugole for Kabweri MP

Kibuku, Uganda:- As 2026 elections draw near, the Kabweri Constituency in Kibuku district is poised to become a focal point of intense political rivalry. Several aspirants have emerged, each with their own ambitions and backgrounds, making this election particularly noteworthy.

Among the prominent figures vying for the seat is the incumbent, Hon. Mugole Mauku David Stephen. He faces strong competition from Dr. Wakida G. Patrick, a renowned statistician and researcher from Research World International, who recently defected opposition FDC to join the ruling NRM party.

Dr. Wakida is also recognized as a political analyst with considerable influence in the area.

Another contender is Emmanuel Piyata, the son of the late Zindula Francis B. Gonahasa, who served as MP from 2016 to 2021 before being ousted by Mugole. Others who have also expressed interest include; Kanyere Ronald Matayo and Daaka Mathias.

The political excitement has been further fueled by the involvement of the clan known as “Balalaka be’ Ngoma,” to which both Emmanuel and Dr. Wakida belong.

During a significant clan meeting held at Kaamu City in Kirika Sub County, all Saaza chiefs from the Bugwere region gathered to deliberate on the upcoming elections and the candidates’ prospects.

Presided over by the clan head (Kibyali), Baalamu Kintu Mubala Samuku Pangholi, the meeting began with a review of responsibilities, filling gaps left by deceased members and those who failed to fulfill their duties. The discussion then shifted to the candidates requiring support.

Within the meeting, it was unanimously decided to support Sarah Kataike Ndoboli in her bid for Budaka Woman Member of Parliament. However, when it came to the Kabweri constituency, tensions surfaced regarding Piyata and Dr. Wakida.

In a private meeting, which excluded the media, clan elders urged Piyata to step aside in favor of Dr. Wakida, who is also his uncle. Despite this, the former resisted their request, citing his commitment to the voters who had supported his late father.

Ultimately, the clan elders convened again and resolved that, due to Piyata’s youth, he should pave the way for Dr. Wakida. They argued that Dr. Wakida’s established reputation and willingness to transform Bugwere made him a preferable candidate.

When contacted, however, Dr Wakida remained tight-lipped on the clan meeting resolution but reaffirmed his intentions to vie for the Parliamentary seat.

As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on Piyata to see how he will respond to the clan’s resolution. It is important to note that all three candidates—Wakida, Mugole, and Emmanuel—are set to compete in the upcoming NRM primaries.