Pamela Annet Kirungi, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate, has been declared the Kabarole District Woman Member of Parliament unopposed after her independent contender, Lilian Kobugabe, withdrew from the race.

Kobugabe, who initially received the National Unity Platform (NUP) flag but later abandoned it, attributed her withdrawal to unavoidable personal circumstances. She denied claims of being bribed, emphasizing that the decision was entirely her own and made in the best interest of the community.

She expressed gratitude to her supporters for their loyalty since 2021, when she first contested the seat, and urged the incoming Woman MP to serve Kabarole with dedication. “I am kindly asking the new Woman MP to work for the people. She shouldn’t stay in Kampala but always come back on the ground, interact with people, take their concerns, and deliver,” Kobugabe said.

Rodgers Kasoro, Kabarole District Returning Officer, confirmed Kobugabe’s withdrawal. He explained that, with only two candidates initially nominated, the remaining candidate Kirungi Pamela is automatically declared elected under Section 19A of the Parliamentary Elections Act 2005, which allows for unopposed election in such cases.

Kasoro also reminded candidates to follow election rules, including campaigning only between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., refraining from voter bribery, abusive language, violent acts, and holding rallies in markets, hospitals, schools, or busy streets.

Reactions among residents were mixed. Gerald Bagambaki expressed regret over a candidate going through the nomination process only to withdraw later. Janet Sayuni voiced disappointment, lamenting that she could no longer vote for her preferred candidate. Meanwhile, Edward Bagonza noted that Kabarole has traditionally been an NRM stronghold, making it challenging for opposition or independent candidates to compete successfully.

As of filing this story, Annet Kirungi Pamela had not responded to calls or messages regarding her unopposed election.