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Prof Ephraim Kamuntu chats with prof Elijah DickensMushemeza during the NRM primary rallies in Rugarama sub-county
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Political Desk
Sheema
Tensions are rising in Sheema South following the recent NRM party primaries, with supporters of Senior Presidential Advisor on Manifesto Implementation, Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, accusing area MP Prof. Elijah Dickens Mushemeza of intimidation and harassment. Prof. Kamuntu defeated Prof. Mushemeza and two other contenders in the race for the NRM flag bearer for the Sheema South parliamentary seat, securing 16,442 votes against Mushemeza's 11,616.
However, in the aftermath of the elections, supporters of Kamuntu—especially from Kasaana and Rugarama sub-counties—allege they are being targeted for their political allegiance. One of them, Chris Natumanya, a brother to Prof. Mushemeza, was arrested last week by officers at Kitagata Police Station under unclear circumstances. He was later released on police bond on Friday.
Other Kamuntu supporters, including Beda Ninyikiriza, Dr. Nicholas Mwebesa, Amumpire Leticia, and Beinomugisha Jabeli Benson, have been summoned by police on charges of malicious damage and rape—allegations they claim are politically motivated. “The complainant, Moriet Nabaasa, is being used by Prof. Mushemeza to tarnish our names for political gain. These accusations are fabricated,” said Beinomugisha.
Protest in Kasaana
In response, a group of Kamuntu supporters held a peaceful protest at Kasaana Trading Centre, carrying placards and chanting slogans condemning what they described as political persecution.
Placards read: “Mushemeza obutakuhagira timushango” – “Failure to support you is not a crime.”
“Mushemeza reka kuharana Chris” – “Stop harassing Chris.”
“Mushemeza reka obwinazi omu bantu” – “Stop oppressing people.”
Elcard Muramuzi Kiru, one of the demonstrators, stated: “We voted peacefully. Why are we being treated like criminals for supporting someone else?” Another resident, Aryatuha Hannington, added: “Mushemeza should accept defeat and let the people move forward. Politics is not personal.”
Amon Tumuhirwe, also from Kasaana, said: “We expected mature leadership. If people vote for someone else, that’s democracy. Using the police to settle political scores is shameful.”
Mushemeza responds
In a message shared in a local WhatsApp group, Prof. Mushemeza denied the allegations, saying:
“Those who demonstrated are simply trying to tarnish my name using social media.”
Defying party rules
Prof. Mushemeza is also facing criticism from within the NRM for allegedly violating party rules. Following his loss in the primaries, he announced plans to run as an independent candidate, a move considered contrary to the party constitution. As of now, NRM district officials have not publicly commented on the possible disciplinary consequences of his actions.
Torch Media Africa
