Three residents of Rukungiri Municipality are currently in police custody following a violent altercation that left one man hospitalized. The suspects, identified as Nuwamanya Aaron, Nuwamanya Emmanuel, and a third individual known only as Santos, are accused of assaulting Eliab Keinamura, a local resident, due to his lack of support for Lt. Gen. Henry Tumukunde, who is vying for the Parliamentary seat in Rukungiri Municipality.
The incident unfolded on Monday when the trio attempted to affix political posters to Keinamura’s shops in Kigaaga. A confrontation ensued, escalating into a physical attack that reportedly left Keinamura in a coma. Witnesses claim the suspects forcibly placed him in their vehicle, registered as UAK 105A, and drove him to Kihindi, an area where Lt. Gen. Tumukunde maintains an office. It is alleged that upon arrival, Keinamura was further assaulted before being taken to Rukungiri Central Police Station, where the suspects bizarrely claimed that Keinamura had attacked them.
Following the assault, Keinamura sought medical attention and reported the incident to the police. On-duty officers at the station instructed the suspects to return the next day to address their concerns. However, Keinamura took the initiative to file a formal report of assault against them.
The Rukungiri District Police Commander, SSP Kyangungu Apollo, confirmed the arrests during a press briefing. He stated that the suspects are facing serious assault charges and will be brought before the court once the investigation concludes. He also confirmed that the vehicle used in the alleged kidnapping has been impounded as part of the ongoing inquiry.
In a statement recorded at the police station, Keinamura expressed distress over his condition, indicating significant health issues resulting from the assault. He emphasized the need for justice, calling for appropriate action against his attackers.
The political climate in Rukungiri Municipality is becoming increasingly charged as various candidates vie for the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party’s nomination. Alongside Lt. Gen. Tumukunde, other prominent candidates include the incumbent MP, Dr. Elisa Rutahigwa, legal expert Counsel Isaac Atukunda, and emerging contender Andrew Kikira. The recent violence reflects the intensity of the political competition, especially in the wake of Tumukunde’s controversial statements on local radio asserting his ability to instigate and fund a war if necessary.
This incident has raised concerns about political violence in the region, with many residents calling for peace and dialogue rather than intimidation and aggression. Political analysts suggest that as the election date approaches, tensions are likely to escalate, further endangering community safety.
Community leaders in Rukungiri have condemned the assault, urging all political actors to engage in fair competition and respect the rights and safety of individuals, regardless of their political affiliations. They stress that political differences should be settled through dialogue and democratic processes rather than violence.
As the situation develops, many in Rukungiri Municipality are left wondering about the consequences of political rivalry and the lengths to which individuals will go to secure power. The police investigation continues, and the community awaits the forthcoming court proceedings against the suspects.
In light of this incident, local authorities are being urged to implement measures to ensure safety during the electoral process, including increased policing and community engagement initiatives aimed at fostering a peaceful election environment. The hope is that Rukungiri can navigate this politically charged atmosphere without further incidents of violence, allowing residents to exercise their democratic rights freely and safely.
However, Lt. Gen Hen Tumukunde team dispels all the allegations.
