Sheema District, Uganda — Tension has gripped Sheema North after a Vision Group journalist, Sheikh Abduhartifu, was reportedly caught red-handed attempting to plant witchcraft at the home of the area Member of Parliament, Hon. Naome Kibaaju.
According to security sources, Abduhartifu — a reporter with TV West based in Sheema District — was apprehended on Wednesday evening while allegedly trying to place witchcraft materials at the entrance of Hon. Kibaaju’s residence.
He reportedly claimed the materials had powers to block her from winning the upcoming NRM party primaries.
During preliminary interrogation, Abduhartifu allegedly confessed that he had been hired by political opponents of the incumbent MP to carry out the act.
He further claimed the witchcraft had been provided by a traditional healer from Rubirizi District and that he was under instructions to plant it directly at the MP’s doorstep.
In a related operation, security operatives also arrested Ziribabero Nangumya, the LC5 councillor representing Kashozi Division in Sheema Municipality. Nangumya is accused of attempting to bribe voters in favor of former Minister Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye, who is currently contesting for the Sheema North parliamentary seat.
Local sources allege that individuals from Sheema Municipality were irregularly registered in Sheema North to boost Dr. Elioda’s support. Several of his alleged campaign agents — including individuals identified as Kabazeyo, Murodi, and Noel Mugarura — have reportedly been mobilizing voters and are suspected of electoral malpractice.
Security forces are now said to be intensifying a manhunt for Dr. Nicholas Kwariija and his brother, Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye, who are believed to be linked to the unfolding incidents. Authorities have not yet confirmed their whereabouts.
The Uganda Police and Electoral Commission have not yet issued an official statement on the matter. However, security in Sheema North has been beefed up as investigations continue into what appears to be a rapidly escalating political controversy.
More updates to follow.
