A section of supporters for Bob Rugonde, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) aspirant for Rubabo County MP, were arrested on Sunday night and taken to Rukungiri Central Police Station following a planned attack on their opponent, Hon. Mathias Rwabugumi.
The incident occurred around 10:00 PM when Simon Aijuka, a resident of Buguma village in Buyanja sub-county, and several associates arrived at Kings Hotel in Rwekuraijo in a Harrier vehicle bearing registration number UBM 982S.
Reports indicate that they attempted to assault the rooms where Rwabugumi and his team were staying.
Rwabugumi stated that he was alerted by security personnel of an Army officer who had booked a room in the hotel. Upon observing unidentified individuals trespassing, the officer inquired about their presence, prompting them to flee, which led to their subsequent arrest.
Aijuka, identified as the ringleader, had allegedly sent messages to members of Rwabugumi’s camp, indicating his intent to launch an attack and drive them from the hotel.
The atmosphere of tension is exacerbated by recent electoral conflicts in Buyanja sub-county. Following accusations of tampering with declaration forms during the NRM primaries held in July 2025, the NRM Tribunal has mandated fresh elections in six villages.
A local resident in his 60s, who wished to remain anonymous, reported that Rugonde’s camp has been conducting late-night patrols across various villages, allegedly targeting those who oppose his candidacy and issuing threats.
In light of these developments, Hon. Mathias Rwabugumi is calling on the police, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), and other security agencies to investigate the situation.
He expressed concern that some politicians are resorting to intimidation tactics against families who do not support them, particularly in the six villages that will soon participate in the upcoming by-election.
Further updates to follow as the situation develops.
