Opinion By Andrew Tewe
The recently concluded NRM District Chairperson elections in Sironko District have offered the nation more than just political outcomes; they have exposed critical questions of integrity and leadership. At the heart of this controversy lies the conduct of Hon. Nambozo Florence Wamala, the current Woman MP for Sironko and Minister of State for Karamoja Affairs, whose actions during the campaign have raised serious concerns among constituents and observers alike.
While competitive politics naturally comes with strategic maneuvering, what unfolded in Sironko during these elections has been characterized not by healthy political competition, but by tactics widely perceived as dishonest and manipulative. Reports from the ground suggest that Hon. Nambozo’s campaign suffered from low public engagement, with community meetings that were expected to draw hundreds of attendees attracting only a few dozen. Instead of reevaluating her strategy or engaging in meaningful dialogue with constituents, she allegedly shifted toward actions that undermined both the spirit and letter of the electoral process.
Key among these allegations is the attempt to influence the process by involving parish-level delegates—individuals without legal voting power at the district level—in a bid to manufacture support and potentially justify the postponement of the elections. Such actions, if verified, point to a troubling willingness to circumvent democratic norms for personal political survival.
Additionally, multiple accounts suggest the distribution of cash to selected youth and community delegates, with unverified claims tying her campaign finances to figures from rival political formations. These allegations, while needing thorough investigation, have only deepened suspicions about her political alliances and the true nature of her support base. The involvement of security forces and NRM party officials in safeguarding the electoral process underscores the gravity with which these matters were treated.
On election day, the contrast between the reception of Hon. Nambozo and that of the eventual winner, Chairman Mafabi Suleiman Lumolo, was stark. While the former entered in silence, the latter was received with overwhelming enthusiasm—a visible and symbolic reflection of the will of the people. This disparity not only revealed the shifting political winds in Sironko but also sent a clear message about the electorate’s growing demand for transparency, accountability, and authentic leadership.
What followed—public accusations, a radio appearance disputing the results, and further claims of procedural bias—did little to restore public confidence. If anything, the post-election narrative, driven largely by denial and deflection, only reinforced the disconnect between the Honourable Member of Parliament and the very people she claims to represent.
The people of Sironko and the greater Bugisu sub-region have spoken through their votes, their silence, and their public reactions. Their message is clear: they expect more from those who seek to lead them. They will not be swayed by rhetoric or manipulated by theatrics. Democracy, for them, is not a tool of convenience, but a right they intend to protect.
In conclusion, Hon. Nambozo Florence Wamala would do well to reflect deeply on the recent events. The path to political redemption lies not in denial or blame-shifting but in a sincere effort to reconnect with the people, acknowledge mistakes, and uphold the democratic principles she is sworn to serve. Uganda’s democracy is maturing, and with that maturity comes accountability. Sironko and Bugisu are watching. So is the rest of the nation.