Kamuli, Uganda: Contestants in the Kamuli District LCV race have put aside their political rivalry and unanimously rallied behind NRM flag bearer Kaloli Dhizaala, marking a rare display of unity in a race that had initially drawn multiple contenders.
Dhizaala, who is contesting for the seat for the third time, described the gesture as humbling and a reaffirmation of his long-standing agenda to champion unity, accountable leadership and inclusive development in Kamuli.
“This is the Christmas gift to the people of Kamuli, and you have been the Santa Claus,” he said. “We are going to adopt your most valued manifestos as we move in service of our people. To those still out there, our doors are open.”
Former contestants Sarah Auma, Thomas Ikanga, Emmanuel Songola and David Kamaali said they are backing Dhizaala not only because he is the NRM flag bearer but because they believe he has the capacity to carry forward their manifestos and maintain collaboration despite past competition.
“There is always one winner. Since we share the same ideology and purpose, we win together,” Auma, the former LCV Vice Chairperson, said.
Kamaali, who has worked closely with Dhizaala both in civil service and political spaces, praised his integrity and commitment to restoring public confidence. “We have the same principles, to restore dignity, integrity and trust in leadership. Dhizaala is the best option to unite us again,” he said.
Former public accountant Thomas Ikanga added that Dhizaala’s openness to consultation and resource-sharing made him the natural candidate to uplift Kamuli. “He allows us to harness our capacities to serve where we are needed most,” he said.
Addressing subcounty chairpersons, councillors and opinion leaders at Bingo Arena, Tito Ikanga warned officials against political brokers and civil servants who, he claimed, have “sold jobs” and contributed to service delivery failures.
“This clique is fronting candidates they can command. Let us say no and speak boldly, tukanule amaiso,” he rallied.
Nabwigulu Subcounty NRM Chairperson Charles Magaya urged residents to set aside factions and work towards rebuilding service delivery systems.
“Kaloli is known as Kadaga’s candidate, but he has reached out to all camps, including some of us labelled Team Anita Mulamu. Like President Museveni, he welcomes even opposition voters because leadership is for all Kamuli people,” Magaya said.
Two independents, Robert Kalulu Owogutwe and Mubarak Ndhegwe, remain in the race. Kalulu is reportedly backed by a network of civil servants and power brokers, while Ndhegwe commands significant support among Muslim communities in Buzaaya County.
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