Gumisiriza Elly, a prominent figure in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the incumbent party Chairperson for Kanoni Subcounty has officially announced his decision to step down from contesting as the LC3 Chairperson in the upcoming general elections. Despite having initially picked nomination forms to run for the position, Gumisiriza cited his role as NRM party Chairperson and the support of his followers as reasons for his withdrawal.

“I have stepped down. I won’t run as the LC3 Chairperson. I picked my nomination forms to run for this post, but given my responsibilities as NRM party Chairperson for Kanoni and the support from my supporters, I have decided to step aside. This wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s the best for our party and community,” Gumisiriza stated during a meeting attended by NRM party chairpersons at all levels, stakeholders and religious leaders.

In his address, Gumisiriza urged party members to foster unity and emphasized the importance of collective effort against rival political parties and independent candidates in Kazo District. He also called on the NRM District Executive Committee to intensify efforts in campaigning for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni emphasizing the need for a united front.

Michael Kanyamiyenga, Chairperson for NRM Older Persons in Kazo urged members to remain calm and avoid intimidation tactics aimed at voters. He also condemned misinformation campaigns and criticized young leaders and panelists who disrespect the party leadership by spreading false information.

Hon. Dan Atwijukure Kimosho, Member of Parliament for Kazo County encouraged voters to support party flag bearers by ticking the party symbol, urging them to rally behind the NRM candidates. He congratulated Gumisiriza for demonstrating resilience and urged him to reconnect with grassroots supporters and bring them back into the party fold.

Hon. Twesigye Wycliffe, party Vice Chairperson of Kanoni expressed gratitude towards Gumisiriza for exemplifying the qualities of an committed NRM member. Youth League Chairperson for Kazo, Hon. Denis Tumuramye also thanked Gumisiriza and called on young people to actively promote the NRM manifesto and work towards safeguarding the party’s achievements.

The meeting was also attended by other notable figures, including Fred Ntungire the district Vice Chairperson for Kazo District, security officials and various stakeholders committed to strengthening the party’s presence in the district.

Gumisiriza’s decision marks a significant development in the local political landscape, emphasizing unity and strategic campaigning as the district gears up for the upcoming elections.

A fierce fire broke out yesterday burning several kiosks in Kazo II, Kazo Central Ward in Kazo Town Council leaving a trail of destruction and despair. Multiple businesses, including restaurants, salons, shops and woodworking enterprises, were reduced to ashes, with losses estimated at millions of shillings.

The blaze, which ignited around 11:40 a.m. is believed to have originated from an electrical short circuit. Rapidly spreading through highly flammable materials, the fire overwhelmed the affected kiosks before firefighting teams could effectively respond.

Eyewitnesses and affected traders were visibly distressed as they surveyed the smoldering wreckage. Many wept openly, lamenting the total loss of their livelihoods. “We are helpless, everything we worked for is gone,” lamented one trader emphasizing the devastating impact on their families and businesses.

The affected traders, including their Chairperson Nabenitwe John Mukasa, Pr. Naturinda Jutus, Auditor Nahabwe, Dez Tushemerirwe, Mbabazi Florence, Tumuhairwe Joyce and Namatovu Jane Muhairwe recounted the harrowing sequence of events. They criticized the slow response of emergency services and highlighted the urgent need for improved firefighting infrastructure in the area.

Mugume Justus, Chairperson of LC1 Kazo II, appealed to the government via the Prime Minister’s Office for immediate assistance. “These families have lost everything; they need a helping hand to get back on their feet,” he urged.

In a show of solidarity, Mayor Mugarura Justus visited the scene to console the victims and pledged to advocate for swift government intervention. “We will do everything possible to ensure these affected families receive the aid they need to rebuild,” the mayor assured.

Although police, fire and rescue teams arrived late, they managed to contain the flames but not before the damage was extensive. The incident has exposed the urgent need for better emergency preparedness and response mechanisms within the community.

Police in Mityana district are currently hunting for Henry Semakula, the director of Besmuk High Secondary School over allegations of collecting registration fees from candidates under false pretense during the Uganda Certificate Examinations (UCE) registration process.

According to Greater Mubende Police Spokesperson, Sp. Rechael Kawala, Semakula is suspected of collecting Shs 270,000 from each of the seven candidates. The candidates were reportedly expecting to sit for their examinations at Kalangalo Senior Secondary School but were shocked upon arrival only to find that their registration was allegedly mishandled.

Kawala condemned the actions, urging parents to be vigilant and verify the legitimacy of the institutions where they enroll their children. “I encourage parents to always find out where to put their children in order to prevent misunderstandings,” she said. She also confirmed that a case has been registered and security agencies are investigating the matter to establish Semakula’s motives.

Meanwhile, the Inspector of Schools for UNEB in Mubende, Head Teacher Kasenyi Secondary School and the General Secretary for Secondary School Head Teachers in Uganda have all confirmed that to date no cases of malpractice have been reported at their institutions. They assured that no candidates have missed their examinations or been affected by any irregularities related to registration.

The investigation into Henry Semakula’s actions is ongoing, and authorities have assured the public that appropriate measures will be taken once the facts are established.

Candidates sitting for the 2025 Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations officially began their written assessments today as mandated by the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB). The exams kicked off with Geography Paper One in the morning followed by the Biology Theory paper later in the day.

According to UNEB, all candidates across the country started their exams successfully with each candidate sitting for their papers registered examination centers within Kazo District. Mwiine Lamech, the District Education Officer for Kazo, confirmed to Kazo FM that the examinations had a smooth start. He urged school heads not to chase away any candidates during this period but to wait until the results are announced and to confiscate results afterward.

School officials from Kazo District expressed optimism about the candidates’ performance. Gordon Mutabazi, Deputy Headteacher of Kazo Secondary School, and Cyprian Beinomugisha, Deputy Headteacher of St. Catherine Girls School both located in Kazo Town Council shared positive remarks with Kazo FM. They noted that their students appeared confident during the exams and are hopeful for good results.

Some candidates interviewed by Kazo FM also expressed confidence, stating that their first papers went well and that they are determined to excel. As the country continues with the assessment process, all eyes are on the students’ performance in the coming days.

Police in Kanungu district are holding Brian Akampurira,30 on allegations of having carnal knowledge of a 13-year-old girl from Ndeba Cell, Kihihi Town Council, Kanungu District.

According to police reports, the incident is believed to have occurred on Sunday, October 12, 2025, around 11:00 a.m. The suspect, a secondary school teacher and resident of Ndeba Cell is accused of luring the young girl into a bush near Bright Future Primary School in Karaunda village as she was heading to prayers at Healing Allena Church.

It is alleged that the girl, upon reaching the school encountered Akampurira whom she recognized by appearance. He reportedly seduced her, took her to a nearby eucalyptus forest and engaged in sexual intercourse with her. The girl raised an alarm but no one came to her rescue as she was in a remote area. She reportedly was threatened with death if she dared to report the incident.

Fortunately, on her way home, a Good Samaritan assisted her and took her to Kihihi Police Station. Coincidentally, the suspect also appeared at the police station where he was identified by the victim. He was promptly arrested and charged with aggravated defilement.

Police spokesperson ASP Maate Elly confirmed that investigations are ongoing and the suspect will be produced before the courts to answer the charges accordingly. Authorities continue to prioritize safeguarding minors and ensuring justice is served in this case.

Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina’s whereabouts remain unknown amid mounting political turmoil with reports emerging that he was flown out of the country on a French military aircraft on Sunday, according to French broadcaster RFI. The destination of the president has not been disclosed.

Public Security Minister Mandimbin’ny Aina Randriambelo confirmed to that Rajoelina is no longer in Madagascar but he has not been seen in public since last week. The president is expected to address the nation later on Monday.

The political crisis intensified after a powerful military unit threw its support behind protesters demanding Rajoelina’s resignation. The situation on the ground remains tense with protesters gathering in the main square of Antananarivo, dubbed the “Square of Democracy,” where some have managed to breach security and enter the area for the first time on Saturday.

In response, Madagascar’s newly appointed Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Demosthene Pikulas, along with Gen. Nonos Mbina Mamelison, Commander of the Gendarmerie Forces addressed the media emphasizing that the military is united and focused on restoring order. Both generals declined to comment on who is currently in charge of the government or whether President Rajoelina remains in the country.

Gen. Mamelison stated, “Taking power is not the army’s intention. It’s not for the moment. We work together, the army and the gendarmerie. It’s not the intention of the army to take over the government.” Gen. Pikulas added that their current role is to restore stability so that citizens can continue their daily activities.

Earlier, the armed forces minister announced Gen. Pikulas’s appointment which was supported by a segment of the military that has sided with the protesters. Soldiers have been seen joining demonstrators, some hanging off military vehicles as they converge on the capital’s main square.

Protesters have voiced their demands for President Rajoelina’s resignation, with many expressing hope that recent developments will lead to a change in leadership. As tensions continue to mount, the situation in Madagascar remains uncertain, with the nation watching closely for further updates.

The Vice President of Uganda, H.E Jessica Alupo has announced plans by the government to tarmac the Bwizibwera–Nsika–Kabwohe road aiming to improve connectivity among Mbarara, Buhweju and Sheema districts.

Alupo made the declaration through a speech delivered on her behalf by Francis Mwebesa, the Cabinet Minister for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives during a ceremony held at the home of Prosper Tuhaise in Kitengure Cell, Bukiro Town Council on Saturday. The event was organized to celebrate the life and achievements of Tuhaise the NRM District Chairman for Mbarara.

The Vice President highlighted that the road project has been incorporated into the government’s budget for the upcoming financial year, emphasizing its importance in enhancing regional development.

Alupo also praised Tuhaise for his significant contributions and steadfast support to the NRM party. The celebration began with a thanksgiving mass led by Rev. Fr. Dr. Severinus Ndugwa, the Vicar General of Mbarara Archdiocese who called for unity among Ugandans and condemned divisions based on political affiliations.

During the event, Prosper Tuhaise urged residents to work diligently toward eradicating poverty within their households, stressing that President Museveni remains the leader with a clear vision for transforming the country.

Additionally, Sedrack Nzeire, the younger brother of President Museveni attended the ceremony and called on residents to support NRM flag bearers in the upcoming elections. He cautioned individuals planning to run as independents while aligning with the NRM, urging them to desist, citing such actions as contrary to party guidelines.

Police in Bushenyi District are investigating a series of coordinated night attacks that left ten people assaulted and robbed of their mobile phones and money on the night of October 9, 2025.

The incidents occurred in the Katungu Cell, Bwegiragye and Ibaare areas within Ishaka Division. Victims, some of whom sustained injuries, are currently receiving treatment at Kampala International University (KIU) Teaching Hospital in Ishaka.

According to SP Apollo Tayebwa, the acting police spokesperson for the Greater Bushenyi Police region, the police responded promptly to reports of the attacks. Preliminary investigations suggest that the affected areas lacked street lighting and CCTV surveillance, factors believed to have facilitated the attackers’ activities.

Police have urged residents to remain vigilant and to report any information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible. In response, authorities have intensified intelligence-led patrols and are working with relevant agencies to install CCTV cameras and security lighting in the vulnerable areas.

The police have assured the public that they will continue to update the community as investigations unfold and efforts to apprehend the suspects are ongoing.

St.Daniel Comboni Hospital is appealing for approximately 189 million shillings to purchase a new X-ray machine following the breakdown of its current equipment several months ago. The hospital’s board of directors announced the fundraising initiative during the commemoration of the feast of St Daniel Comboni, the patron saint of the mission hospital operated under the Catholic Church and founded by the late Fr. Paulino Tamaino.

According to Fr. Vincent Birungi, the hospital’s chairman Board of Governors, the existing X-ray machine has been out of service for months significantly impacting the quality of medical care provided to patients. In the interim, a technician has been tasked with purchasing spare parts in Nairobi as the hospital continues efforts to raise funds for a replacement.

During the event, the Chief Administrative Officer of Bushenyi District, Sanyu Phionah acknowledged the vital role Comboni Hospital plays in enhancing healthcare services within the district. She revealed that the district leadership has allocated UGX147 million for primary healthcare (PHC) support at the hospital in the current financial year.

The celebration included a mass officiated by His Grace Lambert Bainomugisha, Archbishop of Mbarara Archdiocese. In his homily, the Archbishop urged Christians to emulate the legacy of Fr Paulino Tamaino, who established several projects—including schools and the hospital—during his missionary work in Uganda. He emphasized the importance of service and dedication, highlighting that St Daniel Comboni Hospital has served approximately 26,000 patients annually since its establishment 31 years ago.

The hospital’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery and its call for community support underscore its vital role in serving the health needs of the local population.

Police in Kabale district are investigating the mysterious death of a male adult identified as Rubanja Juma, a mechanic and resident of Upper Bugongi Ward in Northern Division, Kabale Municipality. The body of the 30-year-old was found along a pathway lined with eucalyptus forest in Rugarama Pida Cell under unclear circumstances.

According to reports, on October 9, 2025, at approximately 7:38 AM, a resident on his way to Rugarama from Pida Cell came across a body lying along the route in the eucalyptus forest. The victim had multiple deep cuts on the head. The witness was able to identify the body as that of Rubanja Juma and promptly informed his family members. His brother, Barugahale Salim confirmed the identification and reported the incident to Kabale Police for further investigation.

A team of police officers including canine unit specialists responded to the scene. The scene was cordoned off for examination and the K9 sniffer dog was led to the arrest of five individuals from a nearby pork joint to assist in the investigation.

During the operation, police recovered several exhibits, including a T-shirt stained with suspected blood, a pair of shoes and a sandal from the suspects.

ASP Elly Maate, the Kigezi Regional Police Spokesperson urged anyone with relevant information to come forward to help police identify and apprehend those responsible for the murder. He assured the public that police are committed to ensuring justice is served in this case.