Independent candidate for the Samia Bugwe South constituency, Robert Bwire Ngwabe, has announced his withdrawal from the parliamentary race, citing ongoing health challenges.

Speaking to journalists by phone, Bwire explained that he has been battling persistent health complications for more than a month. He noted that despite seeking treatment from multiple health facilities, his condition has shown no significant improvement.

In his formal notice to the electoral commission, Bwire stated: "After extensive consultation with my family members, medical advisors, and close associates, and due to pressing related health concerns, I have deemed it necessary to step down from the race. The demanding nature of parliamentary duties requires full physical and mental readiness."

Although he is exiting the race, Bwire emphasized that he will continue offering support to community groups operating under Obulala, an association he founded in the Samia Bugwe South area.

Busia District Returning Officer Joan Aduru confirmed that she received his withdrawal letter on Thursday. She explained that a hearing had been scheduled for Friday, but the electoral process cannot proceed until Bwire appears in person.

According to Aduru, the electoral commission has not yet ruled on the request to remove him from the ballot because they have not held the required hearing. She said the commission is awaiting his return from treatment abroad before taking any formal action.

As of the time this report was written, no official medical documentation regarding Bwire’s illness had been released.