Bushenyi Woman MP Aspirant Vianah Kemigisha Attacked by Unknown Assailants in Mbarara

A wave of shock has swept through Bushenyi district and Mbarara city following the violent attack on Ms. Vianah Kemigisha, widely known as Nyamunyonyi, an independent candidate vying for the Woman Member of Parliament seat for Bushenyi district. The incident occurred on Friday night just outside the gate to her residence in Mbarara city.

According to close associates, Ms. Kemigisha was waylaid by unknown assailants who beat her and made away with her personal belongings, including mobile phones. The attack left her with serious injuries, prompting her immediate hospitalization. She is currently undergoing medical treatment at Western Medical and Maternity Centre in Mbarara, where health workers report that she is responding to care, though still under close observation.

Ms. Kemigisha, a former National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer aspirant, rose to significant prominence during the recent NRM primaries where she garnered 38.8% of the votes. The incumbent, Hon. Annet Katusiime Mugisha, was declared the winner with 61.2%. Following the primaries, Ms. Kemigisha joined the race as an independent candidate, drawing considerable support especially among youth and women groups who praise her grassroots mobilization.

The Bushenyi Woman MP race continues to intensify, with other contenders in the field including Namara Caroline, a former journalist at BFM Radio, and Gwendolyn Musiimenta—both also running as independent candidates. The growing tension around the seat has sparked concerns among political observers, with calls for authorities to ensure safety, fairness, and calm throughout the campaign period.

Local leaders and supporters have condemned the attack, urging security agencies to launch immediate investigations and bring the perpetrators to justice. They argue that such acts not only endanger candidates’ lives but also threaten democratic participation and freedom of political expression.

By press time, police had not yet released an official statement regarding the assault. However, community members and political analysts hope that the matter will be handled swiftly to prevent escalation of fear among other candidates and supporters.

Although Ms. Kemigisha battles with injuries on her sickbed, her campaign team says she remains determined and committed to her political journey, calling for peace, unity, and respect among all competing sides.

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