Man Killed After Refusing to Support Relative in Kabale NRM Polls

Kabale: A man in his 60s, identified as Silver Owomuhangi, was allegedly murdered after refusing to support his uncle during the recent National Resistance Movement (NRM) party structure elections in Kabale District.

The elections, held on May 6, in Bugo Cell, Masamba Parish, Rubaya Sub-county, included several categories such as women, youth, persons with disabilities, the elderly, entrepreneurs, mainstream party leaders, workers, and LC1 NRM flag bearers.

According to sources, Owomuhangi declined to back his uncle, Henry Tumwijukye, and instead supported rival candidate Wilber Turyarugayo in what was described as a hotly contested race.

Owomuhangi’s body was discovered dumped along a footpath leading to his home early Wednesday morning, shortly after election celebrations. Witnesses say the body had visible signs of strangulation.

Turyarugayo told reporters that during celebrations at Bugo Trading Centre, Tumwijukye accused Owomuhangi of betrayal for supporting his opponent. Although tensions initially cooled, the community was later shocked to learn of Owomuhangi’s death.

The matter was reported to police, and Tumwijukye, along with his sons Victor and Naboth, were arrested to help with investigations.