Richard Wanda…..Photo/IP

MBALE, Uganda (IP)

 Richard Wanda, longtime legislator and chairman of the Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus and Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) coordinator, has positioned himself as the leading candidate for Bungokho Central’s parliamentary seat in the run-up to the 2026 general election — even though he is not the official National Resistance Movement (NRM) flagbearer.

Wanda, who has represented Bungokho Central and led the PLU caucus, is all smiles as his campaign gained traction after presidential candidate Nathan Nandala Mafabi drew large crowds at rallies criticizing the NRM flagbearer for alleged past integrity failures, urging voters not to support  him.

Mafabi’s message resonated with many voters who feel disillusioned with traditional party nominee.

Wanda has embraced that momentum, advocating for the re-election of President Yoweri Museveni while also framing himself as an independent voice with deep local roots.

His supporters say that his dual role with PLU and alignment with Museveni’s stability message has given his bid broader appeal beyond strict party lines.

“At a time when many feel let down by party machines, we are offering both continuity and accountability,” Wanda said at a rally in Mbale last month. “This campaign is about delivering results for Bungokho Central.”

NRM Nominee and Other Challengers in the Race

The official NRM flagbearer is Industrial Division Mayor Muhamood Masaba Mutenyo, a veteran mobilizer whose local party victory although disputed by opponents signals strong organizational backing going into the polls.

Masaba’s emphasis on grassroots issues has helped him consolidate core NRM support.

Wamono George Bweri, an independent candidate, has also entered the contest following his formal nomination to challenge both major figures.

Supporters have rallied behind him for pledges to improve service delivery and education, arguing his academic qualifications and community engagement distinguish him from other aspirants.

Local campaign forums have been tense at times, as constituencies weigh integrity, experience and party allegiance in their choices.

Grassroots Setback for Wanda Signals Mixed Fortunes

Wanda’s campaign, however, has not been without controversy. In mid‑2025, he endured a humiliating defeat in parish grassroots elections, where he garnered only three votes against a local challenger’s 17 at one polling unit — a result political commentators interpreted as a warning about his weakening local party base.

Wanda downplayed the loss, calling it a tactical engagement rather than a reflection of his general election prospects.

Still, the parish setback has given rivals ammunition to question his influence; Masaba’s supporters have argued that Wanda’s disconnect at village level could undermine his wider appeal.

Voters Voice Views on Candidates

At a coffee growers’ meeting in Bungokho Central, resident Jane Achieng said she is torn between stability and change.

“We are tired of empty promises, whether from big parties or big men,” Achieng said. “We want someone who listens and delivers.”

Another constituent, Samuel Kato, said Wanda’s blend of independence and support for national leadership gives him an edge.

“He speaks for us and still backs stability at the national level,” Kato said. “That’s the balance many in Bungokho want.”

Outlook

With general elections nearing, observers say Wanda’s ability to maintain his frontrunner status will depend on how he navigates party dynamics, PLU influence and voters’ desire for integrity and service delivery.

The interplay between his PLU backing, Mafabi’s electoral messaging, and the official NRM machinery could define the outcome in this pivotal Eastern Uganda constituency but for now Wanda is the frontrunner.