A National Resistance Movement (NRM) chairperson for Aligoi Sub County, Bukedea District, has died following Wednesday’s clash between rival supporters over alleged ballot stuffing during the LCIII chairperson and councilor elections.
The deceased, Samson Wamimbi, 45, was allegedly attacked by supporters of independent candidate Ben Ecaat, who was contesting against NRM candidate Robert Kahuaka for the LCIII chairperson seat. Witnesses claim the attackers were trying to stop Wamimbi from alleged ballot stuffing.
According to Isaac Epilo, the Bukedea District NRM chairperson, Wamimbi was beaten severely and rushed to Mt. Elgon hospital, but died on his way to Kampala for advanced treatment.
“He died as they prepared to deliver him to Kampala for further management,” Epilo said. “I had telephoned him earlier to mobilize NRM parish chairpersons, but shortly after, we received news of the attack on NRM supporters, and unfortunately, he was among those attacked.”
George William Atum, the NRM vice chairperson Bukedea, said Wamimbi’s head was badly hit.
“It’s sad that we have lost him, and he died when we were on our way to Kampala,” Atum said, adding that the attackers are still at large.
Robert Khaukha, the father of the deceased, pleaded for justice.
“My son has been killed mysteriously without any sickness, I plea for justice,” he said. Wamimbi leaves behind 15 children.
The contest for Aligoi sub county LCIII chairperson was between Robert Kahuaka, the NRM candidate, and Ben Ecaat, an independent candidate. Kahuaka was declared the winner.
Aligoi Sub County in Bukedea District has been an epicenter of violence throughout the campaign season, with cases of businesses deemed hostile to the NRM party being vandalized, forcing some to flee for safety.
Police are still compiling details about the incident and will release a statement later, according to Stephen Mukombe, the South Kyoga regional police spokesperson.