Outgoing Ndorwa East MP Wilfred Niwagaba Decries Election Outcome, Accuses EC and Security of Vote Rigging

Ndorwa East, Kabale District — The outgoing Member of Parliament for Ndorwa East, Hon. Wilfred Niwagaba, has expressed deep disappointment over the outcome of the recently concluded parliamentary elections held on Thursday, 15 January 2026, in which he was defeated by the NRM flag bearer, Dr Protazio Begumisa.

In a strongly worded statement issued after the announcement of results, Niwagaba rejected the credibility of the electoral process, accusing the Electoral Commission (EC) and security agencies of conspiring to subvert the will of the people.

“I know our people voted for us, but a combination of corrupt EC officials and security rigged our votes,” Niwagaba said.

Allegations of Intimidation and Violence

The former legislator further alleged that the election period was marred by heavy deployment of security personnel, whom he described as hostile and intimidating to voters and opposition supporters across the constituency.

“I am personally thankful to God for enabling me to serve for 20 full years uninterrupted, and for enabling us to survive bullets from the hungry and angry security officers who were deployed all over the constituency,” he stated.

His remarks add to a growing chorus of opposition figures across the country who have questioned the conduct of security forces during the 2026 general elections, particularly in areas considered politically competitive.

A 20-Year Parliamentary Journey

Despite his disappointment, Niwagaba struck a reflective and conciliatory tone as he looked back on his two-decade tenure in Parliament. First elected in 2006, he has represented Ndorwa East for 20 consecutive years, becoming one of the constituency’s longest-serving legislators.

He thanked voters for their loyalty and support throughout the years, noting that the vote totals he received in the latest election were evidence of continued public confidence in his leadership.

“By and large, I am thankful to our people for standing with us for the last 20 years and for giving us the big number of votes as they did,” he said.

Stepping Back, But Not Walking Away

Niwagaba also revealed that his exit from elective politics comes with a sense of relief, allowing him time to focus on personal ventures after years of demanding public service.

“I am happy and relieved that at least I have gotten a break from the hectic and burdensome public life. I can now concentrate on private businesses and be free from too much pressure from the voters,” he noted.

Nevertheless, he emphasized that he remains committed to the wellbeing of Ndorwa East, urging unity among residents and continued vigilance as the political landscape evolves.

“I pray that we remain close as a family and keep watching the situation from the sidelines as we continue pushing for the development of our constituency,” he added.

Niwagaba was widely loved for being pro-people, humble, and down-to-earth. He will always be remembered as a senior legislator who strongly advocated for the rights and welfare of the people across the country

                     -END-