Masindi District Chairperson, Byaruhanga Cosmas, who is contesting for the Masindi Municipality parliamentary seat as an independent candidate, has dismissed claims made by Speaker of Parliament Anita Among that he has stepped down from the race.
Speaking to journalists on Friday, Byaruhanga said he was shocked to hear the Speaker announce his alleged withdrawal during President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s campaign rally at Masindi Golf Grounds. He said he had never held any discussion with the Speaker or any NRM official regarding stepping aside.
“I was not aware of what the Speaker told the President. I have not stepped down from the race. We never talked about it, and no such agreement exists,” Byaruhanga said.
He emphasized that withdrawing from an election is a formal process governed by the Electoral Commission, requiring the candidate to sign documents and notify the proposers and seconders who nominated him.
“Stepping down is not a one-day thing. It involves documentation and communication to the Electoral Commission. None of this has happened,” he added.
Byaruhanga accused the Speaker of making the announcement because she is supporting one of his opponents, claiming political bias in her remarks. “She stood up to say I had stepped down because she wants to promote another candidate. That statement was not true,” he said.
The district chairperson called on his supporters to remain calm and continue mobilizing, insisting that he is firmly in the race and confident of victory. “I want the voters of Masindi Municipality to know that I am still contesting. Do not be misled. We are continuing with our mobilization, and we shall win,” he said.
During Thursday’s rally, Speaker Anita Among had told the crowd that Byaruhanga had withdrawn in favor of the NRM flagbearer, a declaration that sparked confusion among residents and supporters.