BUHWEJU
Tension is rising in Buhweju West Constituency after incumbent MP Hon. Efraim Biraro voiced his discontent with the recent National Resistance Movement (NRM) primary election results held on 17th July.Biraro who has represented the constituency in Parliament, claims the election process was marred by intimidation and irregularities, and he is now threatening to run as an independent candidate.
Speaking to our reporter in a phone interview, Biraro alleged that his main rival, Eng. Kalisa John Bosco, used intimidation tactics during the primaries including use of guns, interfering with the voter registers among others. “My supporters were threatened with firearms by people linked to Eng. Kalisa’s campaign,” Biraro stated, insisting that the safety of his constituents and the integrity of the electoral process must be respected.
“If the NRM Electoral Commission doesn’t recall the Buhweju West primary elections, I will contest as an independent,” Biraro declared, adding that he could not stand by while what he described as undemocratic practices shaped the future of his constituency.
The NRM Electoral Commission has not yet issued an official response to the allegations or Biraro’s demand for a recall of the vote. Meanwhile, political analysts suggest that Biraro’s move could potentially split the NRM vote, adding uncertainty to the general election landscape in Buhweju West.