NRM Primaries Violence Leaves One Dead, UPDF Soldier Injured
The NRM primaries violence in eastern Uganda has turned deadly. A political supporter was shot dead, and a UPDF soldier remains in a coma after two separate early morning attacks. The violence highlights growing tension as Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections.
Shooting Reported in Kamuli District
Police confirmed the death of Sowed Egumya, a supporter of ex-minister Isaac Musumba, around 2 a.m. near Kasambira Town Council in Kamuli District. He backed Musumba’s bid to unseat MP Martine Muzaale as NRM flagbearer in Buzaya County.
According to Busoga North police spokesperson Michael Kasadha, Egumya and others tried to storm Muzaale’s home. Officers intercepted their vehicle, which allegedly carried machetes. When the group attempted to flee, officers opened fire on the tyres. A stray bullet may have hit Egumya.
However, Bosco Isabirye, who was in the vehicle, told a different story. He said security forces ambushed them in Buwagi Village, near a swamp. “Soldiers blocked us and fired directly. Egumya got hit first,” Isabirye claimed.
Muzaale later alleged that the group rammed his gate and kidnapped one of his supporters. Police are still investigating both accounts of the incident.
UPDF Soldier Attacked in Mayuge
In a separate event in Kigandalo Sub-county, Mayuge District, a UPDF soldier fell into a coma after being hit in the head with a stone. The attack happened during a routine patrol.
Eng Maton Mukisa, the LC3 chairperson, was with the soldier. He said the crowd emerged from a sugarcane field and launched the attack. “The soldiers held their fire. The group vanished into the plantation,” Mukisa said.
Officials have not yet disclosed the soldier’s current condition.
Rising Election Tensions Spark Concern
Uganda’s 2026 general election draws near, and tensions are rising. Thursday’s NRM primaries determined flagbearers, especially in competitive rural districts. Political clashes have intensified across the country.
Over the past few weeks, at least seven election-related deaths have been linked to NRM primaries. Security officials have urged candidates and supporters to respect the law and avoid violence.
Cultural leaders may play a role in reducing political tension. Earlier this week, the government provided vehicles to traditional leaders to support their efforts in promoting peace and development. Kampala Express reports that cultural heads are expected to boost grassroots harmony during the campaign season.
Meanwhile, political rivalries continue to flare in eastern Uganda. As Kampala Express highlighted, prominent party figures like Mike Mukula and Jacob Oboth Oboth remain divided over candidate selection, adding to the already volatile atmosphere.
The killing of Egumya and the attack on a UPDF officer reveal the urgent need for de-escalation and fair competition. Uganda must protect citizens, uphold the rule of law, and ensure political rivalry doesn’t claim more lives.
For additional details on the shooting and soldier attack, this article offers further context.
