Written By |
Marvin has decided to come as independent
Search
Bushenyi
The race for the Bushenyi–Ishaka Municipality MP seat is heating up, with a total of eight aspirants picking nomination forms ahead of the 2026 general elections. Incumbent Hon. Derrick Kabuura Baimukye, who has served one five-year term, has announced that he will not seek re-election. Kabuura, a son of businessman Apollo Baimukye of Bam Petrol Stations, won the seat in the 2021 elections, defeating the late Gordon Arinda Kakuuma, popularly known as Cowboy. Arinda passed away in 2022 due to COVID-19 complications.
Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality NRM flag bearer Hajj Iddi Bassajabalaba
The candidates who have so far picked nomination forms include:
Counsel Marvin Baryaruha, the Chancellor of West Ankole Diocese, and Counsel Nicholas Ndyakira, who recently lost to Hajj Bassajabalaba in the NRM primaries, have opted to contest as independents. Most of the other aspirants have also chosen to run independently, avoiding party structures.The Bushenyi–Ishaka Municipality seat remains one of the most influential political positions in the Greater Bushenyi region, and the upcoming elections are expected to be highly competitive. Voters will keenly watch how candidates strategize to succeed Hon. Kabuura.
What Determines Elections in Bushenyi–Ishaka Municipality?
Historically, several factors have influenced the outcome of elections in the municipality:
1. The Money Factor
Financial capacity remains a major determinant. Candidates with substantial resources can run more vibrant campaigns, hold rallies, and reach a wider voter base—giving them a clear advantage over less-funded opponents.
2. Influence of Hassan Basajjabalaba
The NRM Entrepreneurs League chairperson and Bushenyi District NRM Chairperson, Hassan Basajjabalaba, has long been considered a political kingmaker in the area.
In 2010, he supported his younger brother Nasser Basajjabalaba, who initially won the parliamentary seat. However, Odo Tayebwa (FDC) successfully contested the victory over alleged irregularities, leading to a by-election that unseated Nasser. In 2016, Hassan backed the late Arinda Gordon, who went on to win the election. In 2021, he supported Counsel Marvin Baryaruha in the NRM primaries, but Baryaruha lost to Derrick Kabuura Baimukye and did not contest as an independent.
3. Religion
Religion also shapes voter preferences. Bushenyi–Ishaka Municipality is predominantly Catholic, and candidates’ engagement with faith-based communities often plays a significant role in determining electoral outcomes.
Other Contestants
Torch Media Africa
