National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate Julius Monday Rude has made history by becoming the first-ever NRM Member of Parliament for Bukonzo County East, ending decades of opposition dominance in the constituency.
According to the official Return Form for Transmission of Results issued by the Kasese District Returning Officer, Rude secured 28,195 votes, representing 56.05 percent of the total valid votes cast, defeating five other contenders in the just-concluded general elections.
Electoral Commission data indicates that 50,304 valid votes were cast in Bukonzo County East, with 1,549 rejected ballots and 64 spoiled ballot papers.
Rude's closest challenger, Sylvest Masereka of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), garnered 9,032 votes, while Cleous Bwambale Tinkasimire of the National Unity Platform (NUP) came third with 7,105 votes.
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Other candidates included Harold Muhindo Tonny (PFF) with 5,482 votes, Amon Kahungu Philly (DF) with 311 votes, and Julius Bintuuka Walter Mwebaze (Independent) who received 179 votes.
Political analysts say the result signals a significant political shift in Bukonzo County East, traditionally an opposition stronghold.
Speaking shortly after being declared winner, Julius Monday Rude thanked voters for entrusting him with leadership and pledged to serve all residents regardless of political affiliation.
"This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to the people of Bukonzo County East. I am committed to delivering services, improving infrastructure, and working with government to transform our communities," Rude said.
He added that his priorities will include roads, education, health services, and youth employment, alongside strengthening cooperation with the central government.
With the "NRM curse" now broken in Bukonzo County East, observers say expectations on the new legislator are high, as residents anticipate tangible development and effective representation in the 11th Parliament.
