I’m backing Gen. Tumukunde now, but I’ll be in the race with him in 2031.

Rukungiri: The Rukungiri Municipality Member of Parliament, Dr. Elisa Rutahirwa, who recently lost to Gen. Henry Tumukunde in the 2025 NRM party primaries, has vowed to contest again in the 2031 general elections to reclaim the seat.

Speaking to our reporter, Dr. Rutahirwa said he voluntarily stepped aside for Gen. Tumukunde, who emerged as the NRM flag bearer, explaining that his decision was made in the spirit of party unity and development.

He added that he chose to back Gen. Tumukunde because he believes the retired general is in line with the ruling NRM government’s agenda and can effectively continue implementing government programs and ongoing projects, including the upgrade of Rukungiri Health Centre IV to hospital status.

Dr. Rutahirwa emphasized that Rukungiri Municipality does not need opposition leadership and called on residents to support Gen. Tumukunde in the upcoming general elections.

CUE IN…..ON BACKING GEN….RR

When asked about his political future, he confirmed that he plans to return to the race in 2031 to contest for the NRM flag once again.

CUE IN….RUTAHIRWA ON RETURN….RR

Meanwhile, Gen. Henry Tumukunde, who is now the NRM flag bearer for Rukungiri Municipality, welcomed the support from his former competitors, saying it demonstrates party strength and unity.

CUE IN….GEN TUMUKUNDE…RR

It is worth noting that Dr. Elisa Rutahirwa, Council Isaac Atukunda, and Andrew Kikira, who lost to Gen. Tumukunde in the NRM primaries, had initially accused him of vote bribery and intimidation but later withdrew their complaints and chose to back him in the forthcoming general elections scheduled for January 15, 2026.