A 30-year-old man from Kasese District has been arrested in Kisoro District for allegedly impersonating a State House agent while campaigning for an Independent candidate in the upcoming district woman Member of Parliament by-election on November 14. Bridge Murokole Agaba’s arrest followed a viral video showing him campaigning at a rally for candidate Grace Akifeza Ngabirano, where he claimed to be a State House representative sent to gather votes for her.
Kisoro District police commander, SP Ben Niwamanya, stated that Agaba will face charges of impersonation, noting that such actions damage the reputation of the State House. According to police, Agaba’s claims of representing the State House are unsubstantiated.
Agaba reportedly informed police that he works for “Mwaganza,” a political group under Kenneth Mafabi, a special political advisor to the president. He claimed this group seeks votes for President Museveni. Despite his statements, Agaba could not provide documentation to verify any formal connection with the State House.
Agaba identified himself as an NRM cadre trained in Kyankwanzi to support President Museveni’s campaign efforts. He explained his support for Akifeza, noting her popularity and potential to win the by-election.
Six candidates are competing to fill the seat left vacant after former minister Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi’s death in September. The candidates are: Rose Kabagyeni (NRM), Grace Akifeza (Independent), Juliet Musanase (FDC), Chimpaye Aisha (People’s Progress Party), Mable Ingabire (UPC), and Zubedi Sultan Salim (NUP).