Besigye's support is Still Strong in Kasese, Winnie Kiiza
kakooza Peter
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
As Uganda moves closer to the 2026 general elections, Kasese remains a key political battleground. The district, known for its long history of opposition support, is once again in the spotlight—facing questions about shifting alliances, unmet promises, and voter loyalty.
Former Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Winnie Kiiza, says the spirit of resistance in Kasese is still alive. “The opposition still leads here,” she stated, pointing out that the people have not forgotten the many unfulfilled promises from the ruling government.
Kasese, found in western Uganda near the Congo border, has over 384,000 voters, 27 sub-counties, and five parliamentary seats. Despite its size and importance, the region has faced years of neglect—especially in areas like farming, infrastructure, and local industry. Coffee, rice, maize, and beans are widely grown, but prices remain low, frustrating farmers.
According to Kiiza, the government has failed to deliver on several key projects. These include the long-promised Kilembe Mines renovation, the salt factory in Katwe, and a broken irrigation plan. Compensation for people removed from land near the airfield has also never happened.
This frustration has kept support for the opposition strong—especially for Dr. Kizza Besigye, who had been Kasese’s political icon since 2001. Even after stepping down from the presidential race in 2021, opposition candidate Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) still managed to get 45% of the vote in Kasese. President Museveni narrowly edged out the vote with 48%.
Read also: Winnie Byanyima Sends Loving Message as Dr. Kizza Besigye Turns 69 in Jail
Still, the opposition faces challenges. Kiiza admits that while the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) remains popular, it has not done enough to maintain its presence in rural areas. On the other hand, the National Unity Platform (NUP), though strong at the national level, has weak support in Kasese.
Kiiza now backs the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), which she says stands for honest leadership and community values. She also pushes back against claims that politics in Kasese are controlled by the Rwenzururu kingdom, saying voters care more about real services than tribal loyalties.
As 2026 approaches, the big question is whether the opposition can still inspire the people of Kasese—and if the voters will once again reject the status quo.
Quick Summary:
Total voters in Kasese: 384,058
Main issues: Poor farm prices, unfinished projects, broken promises
Key players: Winnie Kiiza (ANT), Dr. Kizza Besigye (FDC), Robert Kyagulanyi (NUP)
Opposition status: Still strong, but party organization needs improvement
2026 outlook: Voters want honest leaders who truly represent them
“If the elections are free and fair,” says Kiiza, “Kasese will vote for leaders who speak for the people.”
