Written By | BK Mugizi
BUSHENYI, Uganda
Former Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipal Education Officer (MEO), Dan Mugyenyi, has been nominated to contest for the Tank Hill Cell LC1 chairperson seat in Central Division, Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality.
Mugyenyi, who retired from public service in May after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60, has also petitioned the Electoral Commission seeking to nullify the nomination of the incumbent, Mary Murezi, who is the NRM flag bearer.
In his petition, Mugyenyi alleges that Murezi is no longer a resident of Tank Hill Cell, claiming she relocated to Rugandazi Cell and is therefore ineligible to contest.
The Electoral Commission had not publicly responded to the petition by press time.
Murezi has served as Tank Hill Cell LC1 chairperson for nearly 20 years.
Mugyenyi's Campaign Pledges
Speaking after his nomination, Mugyenyi said his leadership would focus on uniting residents, promoting transparency, and attracting development projects to the area.
"I have served the public for many years, and I believe I still have something to offer. My priority will be to unite residents, promote accountability, and work with all stakeholders to improve services in Tank Hill Cell," he said.
He urged residents to elect leaders based on integrity and service rather than political affiliations.
Murezi Defends Eligibility
Responding to the petition, Murezi dismissed the allegations, insisting she remains eligible to contest.
"It is true that I shifted to Rugandazi, but I still operate a business in Tank Hill Cell. I have remained closely connected to the people here and continue serving them as their chairperson. That makes me eligible," Murezi said.
She expressed confidence that the Electoral Commission would handle the matter fairly and according to the law.
Four Candidates in Race
The Tank Hill Cell race has attracted four candidates. Mugyenyi, Richard Mwebaze, and Douglas Katate are contesting as independents, while Murezi carries the NRM flag.
The contest is expected to be closely watched, given Murezi's long tenure and Mugyenyi's profile as a retired education administrator.
Other Village Races
In Nyarwanya Village, NRM flag bearer Mauda Muhwezi and independent candidate Deus Tukesiga were duly nominated. Muhwezi said she would prioritise sanitation, security, and youth empowerment.
In Bwatogo Village, Florence Mwesigye was nominated on the NRM ticket and pledged to continue lobbying for development projects, including roads and sanitation improvements.
At Central Village, the race will be between incumbent Milton Mwebembezi (FDC) and Lydia Turibarungi (NRM). Mwebembezi said he is seeking another term to complete ongoing community projects, including intensified night patrols. Turibarungi pledged inclusive leadership based on unity and transparency.