An NRM supporter hacked to death in Busia District has ignited outrage and fear just hours before the ruling party’s primaries. The victim, DJ Pholy, was a well-known disc jockey and vocal supporter of parliamentary aspirant John Paul Wandera. Locals found his body early Wednesday at the Namungodi Primary School playground. Deep wounds on his head revealed a brutal attack with a sharp object. His death adds to the growing tension in Samia Bugwe North.
DJ Pholy actively mobilized support for Wandera, who is challenging the incumbent MP and State Minister for Foreign Affairs, John Mulimba. Wandera’s team blamed coordinated attacks aimed at weakening their support. They said machete-wielding men ambushed over ten of their campaigners on Monday night in Namungodi.
One campaign member, speaking anonymously, said the attack wasn’t random. “They are trying to scare our people into silence,” he explained. Supporters believe Minister Mulimba’s camp, allegedly backed by soldiers loyal to Lt. Gen. Andrew Gutti, may have played a role. However, these claims remain unverified. Neither Mulimba nor the army have responded publicly. Security agencies have also kept silent.
Authorities have not arrested anyone so far. The murder raises serious doubts about the safety and fairness of the upcoming NRM primaries. Many voters now fear participating in the election process. In Kampala, NRM electoral commission chairperson Dr. Tanga Odoi addressed the media on Tuesday. He condemned the violence and warned all candidates against intimidation or misconduct. “We shall not tolerate any form of voter manipulation or intimidation. Any candidate or supporter found involved in violence will face disciplinary action, including disqualification,” Odoi stated.
Local leaders in Samia Bugwe North urged the government to send more security officers. They also called for a full investigation into DJ Pholy’s killing. “This kind of violence not only endangers lives but undermines democracy,” said one councillor. “The perpetrators must face justice.”
As tensions rise, the killing of an NRM supporter hacked to death reveals the pressure facing both candidates and party officials. Grassroots-backed challengers are intensifying competition across the country. With voters already nervous, the party must act swiftly to guarantee a safe and credible primary.
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