NRM launches reconciliation process in post-election violence hotspots
By Skika Reporter
The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has launched a reconciliation initiative in areas affected by violence during the recently concluded General Elections, starting with Kasambya Constituency in Mubende District.
The reconciliation process is being led by Thomas Tayebwa, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, who chaired a meeting bringing together rival political camps of the Kasambya Member of Parliament-elect David Kabanda and his former challenger Henry Muhumuza.
The meeting, held at Tayebwa’s residence in Kigo, Wakiso District on March 4, followed tensions and clashes between supporters of the two candidates during the election campaigns.
According to Tayebwa, the reconciliation effort was initiated following guidance from Yoweri Museveni after an investigation into the election-related violence.
“Following the completion of an investigation commissioned by the President, he guided that I should make efforts to reconcile the parties and restore harmony within the NRM family in Mubende District,” Tayebwa said.
He added that the dialogue had yielded positive results, with both leaders agreeing to set aside their differences and prioritise unity within the party and the development of their constituency.
“I’m happy to note that we have come to a meeting point and agreed with my brothers on putting Kasambya and Mubende first rather than their differences,” he said.
The meeting concluded with Kabanda and Muhumuza publicly reconciling, shaking hands and pledging to work together for the benefit of residents.
“Kasambya is bigger than each one of us; we shall leave, but it will stay. Although there were issues as a result of elections, we must put differences aside and take the party forward as we aim at serving Ugandans,” Tayebwa added.
Kabanda welcomed the initiative and commended the President for promoting dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
“The President emphasises reconciliation and winning people through persuasion. Fighting has never been a solution, but working together to build the country is what matters most,” Kabanda said.
Muhumuza also acknowledged that the elections had left divisions among supporters, including damage to property, but said the focus should now shift to service delivery.
“This was not affecting only me and my supporters; it was splitting our party here and there. Mubende strongly supports NRM, so we are happy that the President has also considered us as people of Kasambya,” he said.
Leaders at the meeting noted that the Kasambya reconciliation process would serve as a model for similar interventions in other areas that experienced election-related tensions, including Lwemiyaga Constituency in Sembabule District.
