By Joseph Mary Buwule.
Nyakiyumbu, Kasese | July 8, 2025 – Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, one of the founding stalwarts of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and a veteran political figure in Kasese District, has officially launched his campaign trail in a spirited bid to retain the NRM party flag for the Bukonzo County West parliamentary seat ahead of the party primaries scheduled for July 17.
Dr. Kiyonga kicked off his campaign in Nyakiyumbu Sub-county, where he held three well-attended public rallies. Hundreds of NRM supporters thronged the venues to show their allegiance to the former Defence Minister and long-serving legislator, whose legacy and experience continue to command significant political weight in the region.
Addressing the gatherings, Dr. Kiyonga emphasized his campaign message built around the theme “New Money and Food Security”, promising to steer the constituency toward economic and social transformation. He urged residents to back him, saying, “Let us walk together in unity to revive our economy, create new wealth, and ensure food security for every household in Bukonzo County West.”
Voter Discontent and Lost Time
Many supporters used the opportunity to express dissatisfaction with the performance of the current leadership under the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC). According to them, the constituency has not meaningfully benefited from government programs in the last ten years.
“Ever since Bukonzo West went to the FDC, we’ve not seen tangible development. Roads are poor, health centers are understaffed, and youth unemployment is high,” lamented Yosia Basisa, a resident of Ihandiro Sub-county. “Seeing Dr. Kiyonga return gives us hope. He is a leader who understands government and can deliver.”
Support from Team Capson and Grassroots Mobilization
Among the vocal supporters at the rallies was Bakalhania Nathan of Team Capson, who declared unwavering support for Dr. Kiyonga. “It is through Dr. Kiyonga that we got to understand and connect with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. We are fully behind him,” he said.
The campaign trail moved to the sub-counties of Ihandiro and Bwera on its second day, where Dr. Kiyonga promised to prioritize infrastructure development, market access for farmers, and improved healthcare delivery. He acknowledged the developmental setbacks experienced during his absence from Parliament and vowed to work closely with the central government to bridge the gaps.
“If I am entrusted with the NRM flag and eventually the mandate of the people, I will ensure that unfinished tasks—such as better roads, health services, and market opportunities—are addressed effectively,” Dr. Kiyonga assured the crowds.
A Tight Contest Ahead
Dr. Kiyonga now faces stiff competition in the NRM primaries from State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Godfrey Kabbyanga, and Wangalema Milton, both of whom are also eyeing the Bukonzo County West seat. The race is expected to be one of the most closely watched intra-party contests in the region.
With his deep-rooted political networks and decades of public service, Dr. Kiyonga’s return to active constituency politics signals a possible comeback that could reshape the political landscape of Bukonzo County West.
As the NRM primary elections draw closer, all eyes will remain on Kasese as constituents weigh their choices among candidates offering competing visions for the future of the constituency.
