A fresh wave of controversy has hit the Bushenyi–Ishaka Municipality parliamentary race after a petition was filed against NRM-leaning aspirant Iddi Bassajabalaba, accusing him of engaging in blatant voter bribery. The Electoral Commission has since summoned both parties for a hearing, raising the possibility of a historic denomination just months before the 2026 general elections.
The petition, filed by fellow aspirant Mr. Casbart Tukundane an independent candidate, alleges that Bassaja distributed cows to villages across the municipality—an act described as a calculated attempt to influence voters ahead of the polls. According to the petition dated 4th November 2025, the distribution of cows for slaughter during village meetings was “a material inducement intended to sway voters,” contrary to the Parliamentary Elections Act, 2005.
in the photo above one of the cows that was given out by Bassaja being slaugtered
Tukundane insists that the act violates Section 68(1) of the Act, which clearly prohibits any form of inducement—whether money, goods, or favors—given with the intent to influence voting behavior. In his petition, he notes that Bassajabalaba’s actions not only breach electoral law but also undermine the integrity of Uganda’s democratic process.
The complaint that was seen by this newspaper argues that the deliberate gifting of cows constitutes bribery and calls for the Electoral Commission to nullify Bassajabalaba’s candidature. Annexed evidence was submitted to support the allegations.
In response, the Electoral Commission has formally notified Bassajabalaba of the complaint. In a letter dated 17th November 2025, the Commission’s Acting Secretary, Richard Baabo Kamugisha, confirmed that the matter would be heard on Tuesday, 18th November 2025 at 2:00 PM. Both the accused and the complainant have been summoned to appear before the Commission to present their arguments.
“The complaint, which earlier came up for hearing on 7th November 2025, requires your response,” the Commission wrote to Bassaja. Tukundane has also been invited to attend the session where the Commission will determine the fate of the aspirant’s nomination.
If found guilty, Bassaja risks being denominated, a move that would dramatically shift the political landscape in Bushenyi–Ishaka Municipality. With the general election fast approaching, the case has generated significant public interest, with many residents keenly watching how the Electoral Commission will enforce electoral law.
Bassaja campaign agent taking the cow for slaughtering where voters enjoyed meat
This development marks one of the most high-profile bribery accusations in the region this election cycle and signals the Commission’s heightened scrutiny ahead of 2026. Political analysts say the ruling could set a precedent for how electoral offences are handled nationwide.
All eyes are on Bushenyi Municipality to see how the petition turns out as Basajja is in panic mode over what could possibly be the last nail in his political coffin