Seven Arrested After Violent Attack on MP Zumura Maneno’s Campaign Rally in Obongi.
By Okidi Patrick
OBONGI, UGANDA – January 11, 2026 – Political tensions in Obongi district boiled over today when seven suspects were arrested for violently disrupting a campaign rally for incumbent Member of Parliament and NRM flag bearer, Hon. Zumura Maneno.
The chaos erupted in Andra village, Ubi Parish, in Palorinya subcounty, where the thugs allegedly descended on the gathering, beating supporters with sticks, fists, and feet. eyewitnesses also reported the assailants hurling stones and bricks to disperse the crowd and intimidate attendees.
Swift action by rally supporters and local residents resulted in the apprehension and disarming of seven individuals before they could cause further harm. Those arrested include Ivuru Peter, Anyama Emmanuel, Nyanda Robert, Andama Ben, Izajakare Emmanuel, Iranya Godfrey, and a woman, Kosoa Evelyn. The reported ringleader of the group, identified as Otama Alex, is currently on the run.
According to statements from those arrested, the attack was orchestrated at the behest of independent candidate Joyo Harriet, who lost to Hon. Maneno in the NRM primaries. The suspects further alleged that Parish Chief Abraham Chandiga of Liwa had purchased alcohol for them to fortify themselves before carrying out the assault.
Addressing her supporters after the incident, a defiant and disappointed Hon. Maneno condemned the use of violence and personal attacks in her competitor’s campaign.
“It is truly unfortunate that my opponent chooses to send hooligans, fueled with alcohol, to beat my supporters and disrupt our rallies,” Hon. Maneno said. “Instead of telling the voters what she will do for them if elected, she resorts to calling me a prostitute. This is not the leadership our people need.”
Despite the violent interruption, voters in Andra village were resolute in their support for the incumbent MP. They publicly assured Hon. Maneno of their votes, citing her effective representation and tangible development initiatives in the constituency, such as theZumura Education Fund, the distribution of iron sheets to vulnerable households, and providing mattresses to top-performing students.
The arrested suspects have been handed over to the police, and an investigation has been launched. Authorities are now pursuing the fugitive ringleader as the electoral campaign in the region grows increasingly heated.
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