By Aggrey Baba
Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, the incumbent MP for Bugiri Municipality, is facing the strongest political challenge of his career, as the race for 2026 draws new energy from seasoned rivals and shifting voter sentiment on the ground.
Basalirwa, who has represented the constituency since its creation in 2018, is best known nationally for his firebrand opposition politics under the Justice Forum (JEEMA), and his role in championing controversial legislation such as the Anti-Homosexuality Act and the Anti-Counterfeit Bill.
But while his voice continues to command attention in Anita Among’s house, back home in Bugiri, the ground is no longer as firm.
For many voters, the issue is no longer about Basalirwa’s parliamentary record or legal advocacy, but about presence, accessibility, and what he has practically done for the people of Bugiri Municipality.
Residents across different wards now say the MP has become increasingly distant, often viewed more as a national political figure than a local representative.
His critics argue that while Basalirwa has made efforts in areas like women empowerment, bursaries for students, and support to market vendors, these interventions have not translated into sustained visibility or connection with ordinary voters.
The sentiment that the MP has grown too removed from the day-to-day struggles of the community is increasingly evident in markets, local radio talk shows, and political gatherings.
Mr Alshura Gwebatuma, a prominent NRM youth leader and mobiliser in Bugiri, captured this growing frustration among the electorate.
“Much as Hon. Basalirwa has made some efforts, especially in supporting women’s groups, but the gap between him and the ordinary voters is still too wide,” Gwebatuma said. “He rarely associates with the people, and many feel sidelined. His leadership seems more centred around a few family members, rather than the wider community. That’s why there is growing fatigue. People feel they need someone who is available and accessible.”
This discontent has opened political space for long-time rival Mr Okecho Francis, who is now emerging as the leading challenger in the 2026 race.
Okecho has previously contested twice (first in the 2018 by-election and again in the 2021 general elections) and lost both times to Basalirwa. However, his persistent presence in the community has left a lasting impression on voters.
Okecho has maintained strong ties with Bugiri residents, attending social functions, responding to emergencies, and supporting community efforts even outside election seasons. His continued engagement, according to several voters, has helped him remain politically relevant and, now, increasingly popular.
But before he can face off with Basalirwa on the general ballot, Okecho must first secure the NRM flag through party primaries. His main contender in the party is Ms Catherine Phoebe Nabirye, widely known as Nalongo Phoebe. She has been active in community mobilisation and women’s empowerment and has built a loyal support base, especially among traders and rural women.
Although the NRM primary race is expected to be tight, political observers say Okecho has an advantage in experience and consistency, having been active in Bugiri’s politics for over a decade.
Beyond the NRM contest, the race is drawing back other familiar names. Mr Marcelino Egesa Margeni, who is now running under the National Unity Platform (NUP), is not a newcomer to politics.
In 2016, he contested for the Bukooli North parliamentary seat under the FDC banner, and in 2021, he vied for the LC5 chairpersonship of Bugiri District, where he finished second. Egesa is now turning his focus to Bugiri Municipality, presenting himself as a fresh alternative with a track record of persistence and grassroots engagement.
Also back in the race is Hamzah Evuga, a former journalist, and business consultant who contested in the 2018 Bugiri by-election but did not perform well. He is once again seeking the NRM ticket, this time with a campaign focused on healthcare reform, expansion of the municipality, and support for the elderly.
With all these seasoned figures returning to the political stage, the 2026 race has quickly become one of the most competitive in the region. Basalirwa, though not new to uphill political battles, is facing a constituency that is more critical and vocal than in previous years.
Observers note that the biggest challenge for the incumbent is not simply the number of challengers, but the shift in public expectations. Voters now want leaders who are visible, approachable, and consistently engaged (not just eloquent in the national spotlight). (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
