𝙇𝘾𝙑 𝘼𝙎𝙋𝙄𝙍𝘼𝙉𝙏𝙎 𝘾𝘼𝙈𝙋𝘼𝙄𝙂𝙉 𝙄𝙉 𝘽𝙐𝙎𝙃𝙄𝙀𝙉𝘿𝙀, 𝙃𝙊𝙉.𝙏𝙊𝙉𝙉𝙔 𝙒𝘼𝙈𝘼𝙂𝘼𝙇𝙀 𝙍𝙀𝘾𝙀𝙄𝙑𝙀𝙎 𝙎𝙏𝘼𝙉𝘿𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝙊𝙑𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉

By Uwa Hezron

Saturday, 12 July, 2025

The contest for the NRM flag in the Mbale District LCV Chairperson race is intensifying, with aspirants actively engaging voters in various parts of the district. Bushiende Sub-county was the latest stop, as candidates pitched their visions to the electorate.

Among the aspirants, Hon. Tonny Wamagale, popularly known as _“Isuubi ye Bungokho”,_ emerged as the crowd favorite. As he toured the sub-county, residents welcomed him with cheers, songs, and ululations, culminating in a standing ovation when he stepped onto the podium.

In his address, Hon. Wamagale expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support from the people of Bushiende. 

He reminded them of his brief but impactful tenure as District Vice Chairperson, a position he left after two years due to his firm stance against corruption.

“I chose integrity over comfort. I will continue the fight against corruption and ensure quality service delivery across the district,” Wamagale stated.

He emphasized that he will not wait for election seasons to work on roads, but instead introduce regular road maintenance and strict supervision to guarantee quality work. In a veiled jab at older politicians, he remarked, “The district needs youthful energy to move forward. Our elders have served well and deserve to rest and enjoy their pension.”

Wamagale also reminded residents that during his two-year tenure, he helped lobby for the construction of the maternity ward at Bushiende Health Centre III, a facility that has since improved maternal healthcare services in the area.

He pledged to restore sanity in the district by ensuring that government jobs are awarded based on merit and not corruption. 

Additionally, he committed to lobbying for gazettement of two proposed sub-counties within Bushiende, citing the area's vast size and difficult terrain as a challenge to effective service delivery. 

Another aspirant also addressed the crowd. Hon. Mungoma John used his time primarily to throw verbal jabs at Wamagale, accusing him of copying his speech. However, he too pledged to support the creation of two sub-counties and improve service delivery.

Despite his efforts, the residents maintained their chants in support of Wamagale, frequently interrupting the rally with songs of praise. Many affirmed that his radio talk shows and brief service as Vice Chairperson had proven his commitment to the people.

“We are voting Wamagale,” declared one resident. “He speaks for the people, and his energy is what this district needs.”

Another added, “Mungoma should consider retiring. It’s time for new leadership with fresh ideas.”

Meanwhile, Wamimbi Samson Wakwomu, another contender in the race, has been noticeably absent from recent campaign events. His continued absence has left many voters puzzled about his intentions. Efforts to reach him for comment have so far been unsuccessful.

As the race heats up, one thing is clear, Hon. Tonny Wamagale has won the hearts of Bushiende and his momentum continues to build as the election date draws near.