Major Political Realignment in Bungokho Central as Werikhe’s Former Core Team Endorses Hon. Richard Wanda

Mbale

Bungokho Central has witnessed a notable political shift following the decision by Hon. Micheal Werikhe Kafabusa to withdraw from the 2026 parliamentary race. In a development that has reshaped the constituency’s political landscape, Hon. Werikhe’s former core support team—led by former NRM primary flag aspirant Wambedde Robert—has officially declared its full backing for the incumbent Member of Parliament, Hon. Richard Wanda.

The endorsement, announced during a strategic meeting in the constituency, marks one of the most significant boosts to Hon. Wanda’s re-election bid. The team, previously instrumental in mobilizing support for Hon. Werikhe, stated that their decision followed extensive consultation and a shared commitment to ensuring Bungokho Central continues on a path of steady representation and development.

Wambedde Robert, who contested in the NRM primaries in previous cycles, emphasized unity and continuity as key drivers behind the endorsement. He noted that the team had evaluated the current political dynamics, the needs of the constituency, and Hon. Wanda’s performance since taking office.

“Our goal has always been to ensure Bungokho Central is represented by someone who understands the people, works with them, and advocates for their development priorities. After thorough deliberation, we have agreed to support Hon. Richard Wanda because he has demonstrated commitment, accessibility, and tangible progress,” Wambedde said.

According to members of the former Werikhe camp, their collaboration with Hon. Wanda will not be symbolic; instead, it will involve active grassroots mobilization, community engagement, and coordination with local leaders to consolidate support ahead of the 2026 elections. The team vowed to work “tirelessly and unwaveringly” to deliver victory for the incumbent, citing their belief that unity within the NRM camp is essential for stronger representation and development outcomes.

Hon. Richard Wanda welcomed the endorsement with appreciation, describing it as a “vote of confidence” from individuals who have been pivotal actors in Bungokho Central’s political affairs. He commended Hon. Werikhe’s long-standing contribution to the constituency and expressed gratitude to the team for choosing to rally behind his candidature.

“This partnership strengthens our collective effort to continue serving the people of Bungokho Central with dedication. I am humbled by their trust, and together we shall focus on uniting our communities and advancing the development agenda,” he remarked.

Political observers note that this realignment could significantly influence voter dynamics in the constituency. Hon. Werikhe has been a towering figure in local politics for years, and his withdrawal—coupled with the migration of his influential mobilizers to Hon. Wanda’s camp—signals a consolidation of support within the NRM ahead of the party primaries and the general election cycle.

As the 2026 campaigns take shape, the new alliance is expected to galvanize support for Hon. Wanda’s bid while reshaping political networks across the constituency. For residents of Bungokho Central, the development sets the stage for a highly coordinated and potentially decisive campaign marked by renewed unity and strategic mobilization.