The political scene in Kakumiro District has been thrown into turmoil after a shocking incident involving Onesmas Twinamasiko, the NRM Parliamentary flag bearer for Bugangaizi East Constituency. Twinamasiko was remanded to prison for allegedly assaulting Uganda’s Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, in full view of party supporters and security officials. The incident has sparked nationwide discussions about violence and divisions within the ruling party.
Twinamasiko was arrested on Wednesday and brought before the Kibaale Chief Magistrate’s Court, where he faced charges of assault and causing bodily harm. Standing before Chief Magistrate Nazifah Namayanja, he denied all allegations but failed to convince the court to release him immediately. According to court documents, the assault occurred on July 17, 2025, during the announcement of the NRM party primary results at the Kakumiro District NRM offices. What began as a celebration quickly turned chaotic, with tempers flaring between rival party groups.
Witnesses said that during the chaos, Twinamasiko allegedly turned on Prime Minister Nabbanja and slapped her in broad daylight. Many party supporters were left shocked as the attack happened openly, exposing tensions and conflicts within the party. Analysts say this dramatic episode shows that internal competition in the NRM is becoming increasingly violent and divisive, especially with the 2026 general elections approaching.
The court has remanded Twinamasiko to Kibaale Government Prison until September 10, 2025, when his bail application will be considered. This remand is a major setback for his political campaign and a blow to the image of the NRM in Bugangaizi East. Supporters of Prime Minister Nabbanja have demanded strict action against such behavior, while Twinamasiko’s loyalists argue that he is being unfairly targeted. Either way, the incident has shaken the ruling party and highlighted deep divisions within its ranks.
