Bugisu parliamentary cocus Chairperson humiliated during LC2 structure NRM election
By;Weswa Ronnie
A shocking and dramatic twist of political fate, the Member of Parliament for Bungokho Central, Richard Wanda also doubling as Chairperson Bugisu parliamentary cocus today Monday, suffered a crushing and embarrassing defeat in the ongoing NRM grassroots parish elections, losing to a local man described as a “peasant” in what many are calling a stunning upset at NRM parish Publicity position.
The once-confident MP, who also chairs the Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus, spent two gruelling, sleepless nights crisscrossing Mawawa Parish, Nabumali Town Council, pleading for votes. Yet, when the final tally was announced, the results were nothing short of humiliating. Hon. Wanda managed only 3 votes, while his opponent, Michael Wopo, a relatively unknown local, swept the poll with 17 votes.
The defeat sent shockwaves through the political circles of Mbale, with many questioning how a sitting MP, a man of influence and power, could fall so hard in a local council race.
A visibly shaken but composed Hon. Wanda conceded defeat, admitting the people had spoken. However, in a cryptic statement, he hinted at foul play, suggesting that “someone big” might have orchestrated his downfall.
“I accept the results as a gentleman, but I know how politics works. Someone powerful could be behind this. But for now, I have nothing to do—the locals have decided,” Wanda said, his voice tinged with frustration.
Despite the setback, the MP vowed not to lose hope, declaring that “the battle has just begun.” He reaffirmed his focus on retaining his parliamentary seat in the next general elections, signalling that this painful loss would not deter his larger ambitions.
Meanwhile, the victorious Michael Wopo could hardly contain his joy as he addressed his supporters, thanking them for their trust.
“This victory proves that grassroots elections truly reflect the will of the people. It shows how close I am to the villagers, how much they believe in me,” Wopo declared, his voice booming with confidence.
He promised to deliver for the parish, emphasising that leadership is about serving the people, not titles or status. His win has been seen as a direct message to the political elite—that even the most established figures can be unseated if they lose touch with the common man.
Hon. Wanda’s disastrous performance has raised eyebrows across the country, with analysts questioning whether this signals a growing disconnect between MPs and their constituents.
Michael Wopo’s rise marked the beginning of a new wave of grassroots rebellion against Uganda’s political establishment?
One thing is certain: in the game of politics, no seat is safe, and as Hon. Wanda has painfully learned, even a “peasant” can bring a mighty MP to his knees.
