Police hunt suspects after attacks on ministers in Kigezi

Police in the Kigezi sub-region have launched investigations into a wave of political violence targeting high-profile government officials ahead of the July 17, 2025 National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries, as tensions escalate in both Rubanda and Kabale districts.

In Rubanda District, a manhunt is underway for nine individuals accused of stoning the convoy of State Minister for Finance (General Duties) and Rubanda East MP Henry Musasizi Ariganyira. The incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, July 3, shortly after Musasizi addressed a large campaign rally at Hakashanje Playground in Nyakahanga Cell, Bushura Parish, Hamuhambo Town Council.

According to Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson Elly Maate, the minister's vehicle was damaged after a group of unidentified assailants threw stones as the convoy was leaving the venue, shattering the windows. Earlier that morning, Musasizi’s campaign posters at the same location had also been vandalized.

“We registered a case of malicious damage and are making efforts to identify and apprehend the suspects. We strongly warn the public to refrain from lawlessness during this political season. Everyone has the right to freely express their civic choices,” Maate said.

During the rally, Musasizi was also informed of fresh threats made against his supporters. According to Pius Tumwiine, the NRM Chairperson for Bubaare Sub-county, residents reported that three individuals—identified only as Ambrose, Callist, and Innocent—had allegedly warned locals not to vote for Musasizi.

“If you are one of those planning violence, consider this your final warning,” Musasizi said in response. “This time, there will be no forgiveness. Security agencies have been instructed to arrest and prosecute anyone intimidating my supporters.”

He urged the public to reject intimidation and sectarian politics, referencing a recent incident in which Rt Rev Gaddie Akanjuna, Bishop of the Diocese of Kigezi, openly endorsed Musasizi’s rival Jogo Kenneth Biryabarema during a church service. Musasizi called such religious interference dangerous and divisive.

Rubanda District Chairperson Stephen Kasyaba echoed the minister’s concerns, warning that political violence and intimidation would not be tolerated. “Let everyone support the candidate of their choice peacefully. The police have been tasked to ensure law and order is maintained,” he said.

In Kabale District, a similar act of sabotage was reported just days earlier when unknown individuals dismantled a wooden bridge near Kabaya Primary School in Kahungye Sub-county. The bridge, which connects Kahungye to Butanda Sub-county, was destroyed ahead of a planned campaign stop by State Minister for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives David Bahati, who is also the MP for Ndorwa West.

The destruction blocked a convoy of supporters heading to Kyevu Trading Centre, prompting condemnation from Kahungye LCIII Chairperson John Kabengye, who ordered for the arrest of those responsible.

“This bridge was built by Kabale District Local Government. Anyone who destroyed it must be arrested and charged with damaging public infrastructure. As head of security in this sub-county, I won’t tolerate this impunity,” Kabengye declared. He also blamed the district council for failing to allocate road funds to Kahungye, which has left many roads and bridges in disrepair.

While addressing hundreds of supporters at the Kabaya Primary School grounds, Minister Bahati pledged to lobby the central government for special funding to rehabilitate roads and bridges in the area. He dismissed the destruction of the bridge as a desperate attempt by the opposition to sabotage government efforts and distract voters.

“Do not be worried by the opposition’s attempts to undermine our work. The NRM has over 170,000 members in Kabale District, compared to just 2,000 in the opposition. I will ensure this sub-county receives road funding for improved transport infrastructure,” Bahati said.

The rising tensions and acts of violence targeting key government officials have raised concerns among local leaders and security agencies, who are now stepping up efforts to prevent further escalation ahead of the party primaries. Police in both districts have vowed to bring perpetrators to justice and ensure that the political process proceeds peacefully.