KABALE, Uganda — David Bahati, Uganda’s State Minister for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives (Industry) and the current Member of Parliament for Ndorwa County West, has publicly committed to continuing his service to the people of his constituency, even after a contentious primary election within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) resulted in his defeat.
Bahati addressed journalists yesterday, breaking his silence on the NRM primaries held on July 17. He characterized the electoral exercise as “deeply flawed” and stated it was “fraught with tension and allegations of electoral irregularities.”
According to official results released by Kabale District NRM Registrar Babra Ainebyona, Counsel Eliab Naturinda Mporera was declared the winner, securing 25,027 votes, representing 50.9% of the total ballots cast. Bahati received 23,759 votes, accounting for 48.3%, while a third contender, Mwesigwa Edward, garnered 416 votes, or 0.8%.
Despite the outcome, Bahati emphasized his unwavering commitment to the democratic process. “It’s not over until it’s over,” he stated, signaling that he is actively exploring his options while maintaining his focus on serving the community that he has represented for years.
He detailed several alleged irregularities during the voting exercise, specifically citing instances of voter harassment and intimidation. Bahati assured his supporters that their concerns are being rigorously investigated. “We are reviewing the entire process and consulting widely on the appropriate course of action,” he added.
The long-serving legislator urged his supporters to maintain calm and unity, stressing that their collective voice remains paramount in his decisions moving forward. “Let us be patient. Our focus is service, not just positions,” he affirmed.
Bahati, who additionally serves as the NRM Chairperson for Kabale District, has been a central and influential figure in the political and developmental landscape of the region for two decades. His message of resilience and dedication to ongoing service resonated with many of his supporters, who expressed hope for a peaceful resolution and continued progress within Ndorwa County West.
