State Minister for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, David Bahati, has contested the outcome of the recently concluded NRM primary elections for Ndorwa County West, declaring the race “not over” and pointing to serious electoral irregularities.
The July 17 vote saw lawyer Eliab Naturinda Mporera declared the winner by Kabale District NRM Registrar Babra Ainebyona, securing 25,027 votes (50.9%). Minister Bahati, a long-serving legislator and NRM Chairperson for Kabale District, polled 23,759 votes (48.3%), while a third contender, Mwesigwa Edward, received 416 votes (0.8%).
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Bahati described the primaries as “deeply flawed” and “fraught with tension and allegations of electoral irregularities.” He specifically questioned results from about seven polling stations in Kamuganguzi sub-county, a key area where he lost, noting that the number of votes cast reportedly exceeded the number of registered voters.
“We are reviewing the entire process and consulting widely on the appropriate course of action,” Bahati said, reaffirming his commitment to democratic principles and his constituents’ service.
He further alleged instances of voter intimidation and harassment, emphasizing that his team is documenting these issues for possible legal or party-based redress.
“Let us be patient. Our focus is service, not just positions. Your voice remains central to my decisions,” he told his supporters.
Bahati, who has represented Ndorwa West for nearly two decades, urged calm and unity as the review unfolds. His remarks were seen as a signal of both resilience and restraint, and have been received with optimism by many supporters hoping for a peaceful resolution and continued development in the constituency.
