The Chief Magistrate’s Court in Kiruhura district has approved an extension of remand for two suspects linked to the October 2025 murder of late Flora Kiiza, a resident of Rwabigyemano Cell, Nyakasharara Parish, Kenshunga Sub-county.
Currently, three suspects are in custody for the case. Ampumuza Dickson and Natamba Kenneth were brought before His Worship Sseruwo Benjamin, the Chief Magistrate who ordered their remand extension. The suspects will return to court on December 2, 2025 for further proceedings.
The court’s decision to extend their remand was based on the ongoing investigation, as today’s court session was a mention hearing indicating that authorities are still gathering evidence and have not yet completed their probe into the matter.
Police in Kiruhura district are investigating circumstances under which residents of Rwamuranda Cell in Rwamuranda Parish Kanyaryeru subcounty attacked and burnt the shrines dedicated to Bachwezi spirits, destroyed three smartphones and both Uganda and East African flags that had been raised at the sites. The attack took place on November 11, 2025 at around 5:00 PM leaving the community in shock and fear.
Tanyiima Elic, a resident of the area and one of the victims recounted the harrowing experience explaining that the attack was led by leaders of Christ’s Church, notably Flora Kangoma along with her followers and members of Akashenshero Full Gospel Church. He claims that the community believes the shrines housed spirits of the Bacwezi which are now reportedly under police protection following the attack.
Family members of the victims sustained severe injuries during the assault, stating that they feared for their lives but believed divine intervention saved them.
Church leaders Flora Kangoma and Atuhaire Ronald confirmed their involvement stating that the attack was carried out collectively by the community of Rwamuranda Parish as a religious act. They explained that their actions were driven by concerns over P.7 candidates allegedly possessed by spirits chanting the name of Tanyiima Elic repeatedly during the Primary Leaving Examination (P.L.E.) at Rwamuranda Primary School.
They further claimed that their decision to destroy the shrines was motivated by a spirit of tolerance, which they said guided their actions.
Muhanguzi James, the Local Council I (LCI) chairman for Rwamuranda Cell confirmed the incident, clarifying that residents of Rwamuranda Parish were responsible for the destruction of the shrines but emphasized that it was not carried out as a church activity.
The incident has sparked widespread concern among residents and authorities, raising questions about the intersection of traditional beliefs, religious influence and community actions in the area.
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Chairperson for Kiruhura district has spoken out amid rising tensions and social media rumors surrounding the conduct of the National Unity Platform (NUP) in the district during a recent rally.
Nkesiga Moses Kamiisi dismissed claims circulating online that security personnel in Kiruhura denied NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, commonly known as Bobi Wine chance to hold a rally at Rushere Playground on November 5, 2025. He clarified that the incident was not a security blockade but rather a result of misbehavior by Bobi Wine and his supporters who allegedly took routes not approved in their official rally permit issued by the Electoral Commission. Kamiisi also accused NUP of inciting chaos and assaulting individuals along the rally route.
Meanwhile, Kiruhura Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Bakunda George emphasized the importance of political stability in Uganda. He stated that there is no need to change leadership at this time, highlighting that maintaining peace and stability is crucial for the country’s progress. The RDC reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the gains achieved under President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s leadership.
He called on residents of Kiruhura to support the NRM and its presidential candidate, President Museveni, in the upcoming 2026 general elections, slated for January 15, 2026, according to the National Electoral Commission’s roadmap.
Bakunda urged voters to exercise their democratic rights responsibly and contribute to the continued development and stability of Uganda.
Police in Rukungiri district have arrested Cleophas Mbamanyire, 23, on charges of impersonation. According to police authorities, Mbamanyire falsely claimed to be a Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) candidate.
ASP Elly Maate, the police spokesperson for Kigezi region confirmed that the suspect is a student at Kampala University Luwero Campus pursuing a Bachelor of Arts with Education. She hails from Ruhabo 2 A cell, Rutunguru Parish, Ihunga Sub-county, Ntungamo District.
The arrest followed an intelligence tip-off by the chief invigilator at Bugangari Secondary School, Masiko Ambrose who was overseeing the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) general paper examination. It was discovered that Mbamanyire was sitting the exam on behalf of one Akampurira Brenda around 11:00 am yesterday morning.
Police investigations are ongoing, with statements obtained from witnesses and relevant documents retrieved from the examination center. Authorities are working to establish the full extent of the incident and any potential accomplices.
Maate urged the public to remain vigilant and assist law enforcement in maintaining the integrity of national examinations.
A fatal road accident that occurred on the evening of November 12, 2025 along Kihiihi Road in Rukungiri District’s Western Division claiming one and injuring several others. The incident occured at around 7:00 PM at Kakabada Butagatsi.
According to Kigezi Police region spokesperson, ASP Elly Maate, the deceased has been identified as Nelson Mandela, a 34-year-old boda boda rider operating motorcycle Reg. No. UGG362N, a Bajaj Boxer. Mandela, a resident of Karangaro in Rukungiri Municipality was carrying two adult passengers at the time of the crash.
The injured were Amanya Bruce, 32 and Jolly Mugume, 45 both residents of Kahororo, Karangaro and were passengers on Mandela’s motorcycle. Nabasa Amos, and a yet to be identified male boda boda rider from Furuma Village in Karangaro were also involved.
It is alleged that Mandela was transporting two passengers from Nyakibale Hospital heading towards Kihihi when upon passing Rukungiri district headquarters, a motorcycle emerged suddenly from a feeder road on the left side of the deceased on the lane from Rukungiri town to Kihihi. The collision critically injured all involved parties who were rushed to Case Clinic in Rukungiri. Sadly, Nelson Mandela was pronounced dead upon arrival while the other rider and passengers are currently admitted and receiving treatment.
Maate explained that police visited the scene, documented the incident and retrieved the motorcycle operated by Mandela which has been taken to the police yard pending an inspection. The other motorcycle involved remains at large as it was reportedly whisked away by unknown individuals.
The body of Nelson Mandela has been transported to Rwakabengo Mortuary for postmortem examination, as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer for Buhweju County West, Eng. Dr. John Bosco Koy Kariisa has called on residents to support a peaceful election process. In an interview with our reporter, Dr. Kariisa emphasized that campaigning is a mutual agreement between candidates and voters. He expressed his readiness to serve the people of Buhweju West by promoting development and encouraging hard work.
Dr. Kariisa urged residents to uphold discipline and conduct their campaigns peacefully. He also called for unwavering support for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, emphasizing the importance of unity and stability in the country’s leadership.
Highlighting the role of flag bearers, Kariisa described them as custodians of the NRM manifesto and urged voters to consider this when making their electoral decisions. “Choose leaders who will implement the party’s vision and bring development to Buhweju,” he advised.
He further appealed to voters to welcome all candidates, listen to their views and avoid any forms of disturbance or violence during the campaign period. “Elections should be a time of respect, peace and exercising one’s democratic rights,” he emphasized.
Kariisa faces off with three other contenders who include the incumbent Hon. Biraro Ephraim Ganshanga who lost the NRM flag, Forum for Democratic Change’s Eng. Oscar Bright and Wilson Twinomugisha who is running as an independent.
As the campaign season intensifies, Dr. Kariisa’s message underscores the importance of peaceful and respectful elections for the progress of Buhweju District and Uganda as a whole.
Health inspectors and parish chiefs in Kyabugimbi Town Council, Bushenyi district have united to launch a village sensitization campaign aimed at addressing the persistent challenge of open defecation in the area.
During a recent baraza held at the Kyabugimbi Town Council grounds, residents of Greater Kyabugimbi Sub-county received important health related messages from Dr. Steven Twinomugisha Bwekingo, the Bushenyi District Health Officer disclosed that over 22 households within Kyabugimbi Town Council are practicing open defecation posing serious health risks to the community.
Dr. Twinomugisha emphasized the importance of community involvement urging local leaders especially LCs to conduct regular monitoring and household censuses to improve hygiene standards. He noted that many diseases reported at local health centers are linked to poor sanitation practices.
The event was also attended by Phiona Sanyu, the Chief Administrative Officer of Bushenyi District who commended the Western Ankole Civil Society Forum and other organizers for their efforts. She highlighted that such meetings play a vital role in strengthening citizen engagement and promoting public accountability.
Participants raised concerns about the frequent absenteeism of health workers at local health facilities and the practice of being referred to nearby drug shops to purchase medications, which they say hampers access to quality healthcare.
The campaign aims to foster greater community awareness and action to eliminate open defecation, thereby improving public health and sanitation in Kyabugimbi Sub-county.
Rushere SACCO has officially launched a “Shares Campaign” under the theme, “Your Wealth is through Shares in the SACCO,” in a meeting attended by a select group of delegate members. The primary goal of the campaign is to encourage members to buy more shares in the SACCO, thereby boosting its financial stability and increasing profits. These profits are intended to support small-scale business operators by providing them with low-interest loans to foster economic growth in the community.
During the event held at Rushere SACCO Head Office in Rushere Town Council, Kiruhura District, Annah Tumwesigye, the Business Development Manager, called for unity and cooperation among members. She urged members to actively promote the idea of acquiring shares emphasizing that increased membership and shareholding would enhance the SACCO’s capacity to offer better services.
Tumwesigye also highlighted the benefits of buying more shares, stating, “When you buy more shares, your chances of winning prizes increase and you can access larger loan amounts. Additionally, your shareholding contributes to the development of your family as shares serve as collateral security and help you prepare for retirement.”
Kirabo Justine a member of the SACCO shared her positive experience with Rushere SACCO describing it as having the lowest interest rates among financial institutions. She encouraged fellow members to take advantage of the opportunity to invest in shares for their financial security.
Notable participants included Rev. Jimmy Sebutaayi, who purchased 40 shares and Richard Magembe, a trader in Rushere Town Council who bought 200 shares. Both encouraged other members to buy more shares to strengthen the SACCO and improve their financial futures.
The campaign aims to increase shareholding among members, ultimately contributing to the development of the community and empowering small business operators through accessible financial services.
Kyantumo Seed Secondary School in Kyantumo Cell, Ntambazi Parish Kazo Sub County, Kazo District, held a jubilant thanksgiving ceremony yesterday to celebrate significant progress in infrastructural development supported by the government. The event marked the completion of new school buildings worth over UGX 3 billion shillings and fundraising efforts aimed at renovating and standardizing the old school block.
The celebration was led by Dan Bwamunyonga, the district Speaker alongside local councillors and community members who gathered to recognize this milestone achievement. The event was attended by government officials, community leaders, students, alumni and other stakeholders committed to advancing education in the district.
The Chief Guest, Swizin Kinga Mugyema, Commissioner for Local Councils Development, represented the Permanent Secretary of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya. Mugyema praised the school for its proactive efforts in mobilizing resources and rallying community support to improve its infrastructure. “This is a great achievement that reflects the dedication of the school and the community,” Mugyema remarked.
In his remarks, Bwamunyonga expressed appreciation to the government for its unwavering commitment to improving educational facilities. “This support will greatly enhance the learning environment and boost academic performance in our district,” he said.
Commissioner Mugyema emphasized the importance of community involvement in development initiatives, stating, “While the government is committed to supporting education, community contributions are vital to ensure our schools are well-equipped and functional.”
Kazo County Member of Parliament, Hon. Dan Kimosho also lauded the progress made by Kyantumo Seed Secondary School. “Compared to previous years, the improvements are remarkable,” he noted. “I urge residents to make good use of these facilities because they belong to the community.”
Isaac Akandwanaho, the school’s headteacher expressed gratitude to the government and all stakeholders for their support describing the development as a “dream come true” for the school. He also highlighted ongoing challenges such as the lack of fencing and electricity, promising to maximize the use of the new infrastructure to promote academic excellence.
The event featured a church service led by Rev. Can. Emmanuel Katamunanwire, themed “Wealth for Purpose,” which inspired attendees to pursue success and utilize their resources for positive community impact.
The school which previously faced challenges with inadequate facilities now boasts improved classrooms, laboratories and other essential amenities, promising a brighter future for its students. Contributions from well-wishers, parents and alumni during the fundraising event will further support ongoing infrastructure improvements.
Over UGX 14,000,000 shillings was collected in cash and pledges.
Among notable attendees were NRM flagbearer for Kazo District Woman Member of Parliament,Hon. Molly Kamukama, Kazo District Chairperson Rev. Samuel Mugisha Katugunda, the Chief Administrative Officer Mayanja Bandru and other community leaders committed to advancing education in the region.
Kazo District is currently abuzz with discontent among Local Council 1 (LC1) officials who are voicing their dissatisfaction over the paltry monthly allowance of only UGX 10,000 shillings. The issue came to light during a recent gathering at Kyantumo Seed Secondary School where concerns about the low remuneration were openly discussed.
The dissatisfaction was raised by Mr. Muhebwa Jackson, Chairperson LCIII Kazo Sub County who described the current allowance as inadequate and a major concern for local government officials striving to serve their communities effectively.
During the event, Swizin Kinga Mugyema, the Commissioner for Local Councils Development who represented the Permanent Secretary of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya acknowledged the concerns raised by LC1 officials revealing that the matter had already been submitted to the cabinet for consideration. “LC1s are the backbone of our local government and their efforts deserve better compensation,” Mugyema stated. “We have taken note of the issue and it is currently being reviewed by the relevant authorities.”
The debate among local leaders has intensified, with many calling for an urgent review of the allowances to better reflect the current economic realities faced by the officials. As the government deliberates on the proposal, LC1 officials remain hopeful that their concerns will be addressed promptly.
The event was attended by a host of government officials, community leaders and Members of Parliament, including Hon. Dan Atwijukiire Kimosho and Hon. Molly Kamukama, the Kazo district Woman Member of Parliament aspirant and NRM flag bearer. The discussions have sparked widespread dialogue about the need to improve conditions for local government officials, seen as vital to effective governance at the grassroots level.
