As the dust settles on the highly contentious National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries, a clear sense of frustration and disillusionment has permeated the voter base in Kamuli district.

Voters, feeling short-changed and taken for granted by the ruling party, have reportedly been left in a political void. However, the National Unity Platform (NUP) has swiftly moved to capitalize on this disaffection, with its aspirants jumping onto the campaign trail to re-ignite the election mood.

Leading this charge in Kamuli Municipality is Silver Segonga, popularly trending among voters as “Kyaiffe Kubwaiffe”. Segonga has wasted no time in kicking off his campaign, assuring voters that the time has come to abandon the perceived failings of the NRM and seek refuge under the NUP’s “umbrella.”

“Bring on your frustrations from the yellow bus and get better shelter under the umbrella for we share your troubles, expectations and future,” Segonga passionately rallied. “When things ripen and turn yellow the next is rotting, the bus has started having mechanical problems and breakdowns.”

Segonga described his nascent campaign as a “tour of duty” aimed at introducing himself to the electorate, bringing former NRM supporters into the NUP fold, and providing guidance for progressive leadership.

He revealed that his full manifesto would be launched soon, but stressed the importance of connecting directly with the people first. “We didn’t want to interfere with the NRM’s election process as it made their mistakes and got detached from the people,” he explained, alluding to the timing of his entry into the political fray.

Further reinforcing the NUP’s strategic move is Chris Wabwire, a former NRM District Councilor for Buzaaya County in Kamuli District, who has now crossed over to the NUP. Wabwire emphasized the opposition party’s commitment to integrity, discipline, and a readiness to serve the populace.

“We want community-rooted, credible people for the transformative party it stands for,” Wabwire asserted, outlining NUP’s internal vetting process. He clarified that flagbearers would be selected based on 40% internal evaluation and 60% grassroots performance. “We are good to go against the regime for change,” he confidently added.

The widespread sentiment of betrayal among voters was vividly articulated by Nalongo Betti, alias Mama Katale, a vocal matooke vendor at Kamuli Central Market. She expressed profound disillusionment with the NRM, citing persistent internal infighting that has come at the expense of service delivery and a perceived attitude of taking voters for granted.

“Our NRM Party needs a break for embarrassing us with fake elections,” Mama Katale voiced her frustration. “How can we vote and they announce different flagbearers? Now we have reason to shift to serious opposition to wake them up.”

Similar grievances were echoed by members of the Kamuli Park community, who decried the deplorable state of the park. They claimed the ruling party has its priorities “upside down,” alleging that its prolonged stay in power has led to inefficiency and a takeover by “mafias.”

As NUP aspirants like Silver Segonga actively engage a populace weary of political squabbles and unfulfilled promises, the stage is set for a re-energized electoral contest in Kamuli Municipality, with the opposition hoping to convert voter frustration into a decisive shift in allegiance.