Retired Major General Matayo Kyaligonza has fronted his son, Philip Kyaligonza, to replace his late brother Banura Peter as Kikuube District chairperson.
Banura died following a road accident at Butyamba village in Kikuube Town Council, where he was knocked by a speeding Toyota Hiace taxi, commonly referred to as a “drone.”
Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said the district leader was rushed to Hoima Regional Referral Hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
Before his death, Banura had been serving as Kikuube District LC5 chairperson, a position he held with a growing reputation for grassroots mobilisation and local governance.
Sources indicate that the Kyaligonza family has since convened and endorsed Philip Kyaligonza to contest for the seat, a move seen by some as an attempt to retain political influence within the district following Banura’s sudden death.
Prior to this, Gen Kyaligonza had endorsed Edward Mwesigwa Baligonzaki for the LC5 position, suggesting a shift in strategy as political dynamics evolve ahead of the by-election.
The race for the seat is already attracting interest from several contenders, including Kikuube District Speaker Christopher Nkalu, Michael Christopher Ayeranga, the current vice chairperson Opio Vincent Alpha, among others, setting the stage for what is likely to be a highly competitive contest.
Political observers say the upcoming race could test the strength of local alliances and the influence of established political families in the district, particularly as Kikuube continues to gain strategic importance due to ongoing oil and infrastructure developments in the Albertine region.
The contest is also expected to draw attention from major political actors, given the district’s proximity to key national projects and its growing economic significance.
Paying tribute, Kyaligonza described Banura as a determined and accomplished young man whose potential was cut short.
“He was committed to serving his people and had a clear vision for the district. His death is a great loss not only to the family but to Kikuube as a whole,” he said.
As preparations for the by-election begin, attention is now turning to how political parties and local leaders will position themselves in the race to replace Banura, with expectations of intense campaigning in the coming weeks.
