National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has raised fresh concerns over the credibility of the Kalangala Woman MP by-election, following the defeat of his party’s candidate.
In a statement issued after the results were announced, Kyagulanyi questioned both the conduct of the election and the circumstances surrounding the death of former MP Hellen Nakimuli, whose passing triggered the by-election.
“Looking at what the regime did in Kalangala yesterday, would anyone be wrong to assume that they killed Hon Nakimuli to forcefully take over that district?” Kyagulanyi said.
He further drew parallels with a previous by-election in Kayunga, alleging a similar pattern in the death of former MP Ffeffeka.
The remarks come after the Electoral Commission declared NRM candidate Idah Nabayiga winner with 12,642 votes, defeating five contenders, including the NUP flag bearer who emerged second.
Kyagulanyi’s statement reflects broader opposition concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
During voting on Wednesday, reports emerged of low voter turnout, delays in opening polling stations, and a heavy security presence across parts of the island district.
Opposition actors also cited alleged irregularities, including earlier disputes over electoral materials.
While the NUP leader did not provide evidence to support his claims regarding Nakimuli’s death, his remarks are likely to intensify political tensions and draw sharp responses from government officials.
The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has maintained that the election was conducted in a peaceful and lawful manner, with authorities previously dismissing allegations of malpractice in similar contests.
Political analysts note that Kyagulanyi’s statement signals a continuation of the opposition’s strategy to challenge both electoral outcomes and the broader political environment under President Yoweri Museveni’s administration.
The Kalangala by-election had attracted national attention due to its strategic significance and the closely contested campaigns leading up to polling day.
With the results now declared, focus is expected to shift to potential legal or political challenges from the opposition.
Nakimuli’s death, which led to the vacancy, remains a sensitive issue locally, and Kyagulanyi’s remarks are likely to keep it at the center of political discourse in the coming days.