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Mwesigwa Rukutana said he has decided to bow out of elective politics
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Former minister Mwesigwa Rukutana has announced his retirement from elective politics after a series of setbacks. The run-up to the 2021 general elections marked a significant decline for Rukutana, who faced widespread criticism after a photo emerged showing him wielding a gun during his campaign. Despite the controversies, Rukutana, a lawyer by profession, has now shifted his focus back to his legal career.
"I have crossed the Rubicon. I served enough in politics. Also, the age factor," Rukutana said, adding that even though he believes he could win by 98% in 2026, he has decided to bow out of elective politics.
With Rukutana’s exit, the race for the Rushenyi County seat is now open, with incumbent Naome Kabasharira expected to face several challengers, including her former chief campaign agent and State House legal officer Justus Karuhanga, and former district councilor Ambrose Nuwahereza Kyenjoga. Other contenders include Jonani Muhumuza, Phidel Mubangizi, and Davis Bunana.
Muhumuza commented on Rukutana’s retirement, stating, "I knew he wouldn’t stand. The political terrain has changed. We need leaders who give young people hope."
Naome Kabasharira defeated Rukutana in 2021 elections
The battle for the Rushenyi County seat is likely to be decided within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries. Kabasharira, Karuhanga, and Muhumuza have declared their intentions to compete for the NRM party flag.
In the 2021 general elections, Kabasharira defeated Rukutana, running as an independent candidate after initially losing the NRM party ticket to him. Kabasharira won with 22,152 votes against Rukutana's 19,417. Kabasharira’s assistant, Dan Nsiimere, praised her efforts in improving social services in the constituency. However, her competitors argue that both Rukutana and Kabasharira are cut from the same cloth and believe Rushenyi County deserves a leader who will better represent their interests in Parliament.
