Kisoro, Uganda – Independent candidate Akifeza Grace Ngabirano has emerged victorious in the Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament by-election, held following the sudden death of the late Sarah Nyirabashitsi Mateke. Ngabirano won with a commanding 50,459 votes, defeating her closest competitor, Rose Kabagyeni of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), who garnered 44,982 votes.
The by-election was prompted by the tragic passing of Sarah Nyirabashitsi Mateke on September 7, 2024, due to a heart attack. Ngabirano was officially declared the winner at 1:00 AM by Kisoro District Returning Officer Daniel Nayebare at the Kisoro District Council Hall, with a margin of 5,477 votes.
Election Results:
- Akifeza Grace Ngabirano (Independent) – 50,459 votes
- Rose Kabagyeni (NRM) – 44,982 votes
- Chimpaye Aisha (PPP) – 157 votes
- Ingabire Mable (UPC) – 362 votes
- Musanase Juliet (FDC) – 193 votes
- Zubendi Sultana Salim (NUP) – 903 votes
Ngabirano, a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, education, and infrastructure development, won the hearts of the electorate with her commitment to making Kisoro a thriving district. Despite challenging weather conditions and a competitive political landscape, voters came out in large numbers to support her vision for a better future.
“I stand before you deeply humbled and honored by your trust,” Ngabirano remarked in her victory speech. “This victory is not just mine—it is the victory of every woman, child, and citizen of Kisoro who believes in a better future. Together, we will build a Kisoro that empowers its people and is ready for tomorrow.”
Other Election Results in Kisoro District
In other contests within Kisoro District, Dusingize Vera, an independent candidate, won the District Councilor seat for Southern Division in Kisoro Municipality with 1,255 votes, defeating NRM candidate Ingabire Brenda, who received 1,046 votes.
In Kyanika Town Council and Chahi Subcounty, Uwimana Specioza, also an independent, triumphed with 3,327 votes, defeating Kyampire Molly (independent) with 2,484 votes and NRM candidate Mbabazi Margaret, who received 1,222 votes.
Electoral Process Declared Free and Fair
The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Simon Byabakama, commended the elections for being free, fair, and democratically conducted. He urged the newly elected leaders, particularly Akifeza Grace Ngabirano, to work together with their political opponents to enhance the livelihoods of the people of Kisoro.
“Leadership is a responsibility, not a privilege,” Byabakama said. “Your victory is not just a personal achievement but an opportunity to serve your constituents. The trust that the people have placed in you is sacred and must be honored with integrity and dedication.”
Calls for Unity and Inclusivity
Tango Odoi, Chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission, praised the voters of Kisoro for their discipline and peaceful participation in the elections. He emphasized the importance of collaboration for effective governance, stressing that no leader succeeds alone.
“No leader is an island,” Odoi remarked. “The success of your tenure will depend on your ability to work with other leaders, institutions, and stakeholders. Inclusivity and dialogue are key to fostering a harmonious and effective government.”
However, Odoi also expressed concerns about ethnic and religious influences on the political landscape in Kisoro and the broader Kigezi region.
About Akifeza Grace Ngabirano
Akifeza Grace Ngabirano is a daughter of Mzee Bakanya from Gasaro (Matinza), Rwingwe Nyakabande Subcounty, Kisoro District. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences from Nairobi University, Kenya, and has two master’s degrees: one in Child Rights from Kurt Bosch University and another in Gender Development Studies from Nairobi University. Ngabirano also completed a diploma in Project Management from Makerere University.
Her career spans work with international organizations such as UNHCR in Nairobi, Community Aid International in Kenya, and the World Health Organization in Geneva. In addition to her advocacy work, she is a businesswoman and commercial farmer. She is married to Mr. Ngabirano Michael, and they have four children.
With her victory, Akifeza Grace Ngabirano begins her journey as Kisoro’s new Woman Member of Parliament, pledging to represent her constituents with dedication and a focus on development. Her supporters and fellow leaders are hopeful that her leadership will usher in positive change for Kisoro District.
