By Obbo Yusuf
Police in Iganga District have arrested NRM registrar Kirunda Yazid over allegations of electoral malpractice during the ruling party’s contentious Kigulu South primary elections held on July 17, 2025.
Kirunda is accused of unilaterally declaring Kayemba Patrick as winner despite unresolved disputes over results from key polling stations in the hotly contested race, which involved five candidates.
Provisional results had placed Kayemba Patrick in the lead with 7,095 votes, followed by Yusuf Kyafu Ntulume (6,657), Abdul Rahim Sebukaire alias Kyangha (6,608), incumbent MP Milton Muwuma (5,248), and Waiswa Ian (3,057).
However, discontent erupted after Kirunda allegedly ignored candidate protests over irregularities at Buseyi and Nakalama polling stations, despite an earlier consensus by the aspirants to withhold the results pending NRM headquarters’ intervention.
Busoga East Police Spokesperson SP Michael Kafayo confirmed the arrest, noting that Kirunda’s actions triggered violent riots along Iganga-Tororo highway where angry supporters blocked roads with burning debris, looted property, and assaulted bystanders.
“ The irregularities were cited in Buseyi and Nakalama. All candidates had agreed to suspend the results until Kampala’s guidance, but Mr. Kirunda went ahead and declared Kayemba as the winner. These sparked protests leading to injuries and property damage,” said SP Kafayo adding that Kirunda now faces charges related to electoral malpractice and incitement of violence, and is expected to appear in court soon.
