In a stunning political upset that has sent shockwaves across Busoga, Annet Nabirye has trounced Minister Esther Mbayo in the NRM primaries for Luuka District Woman MP flag bearer, delivering a resounding defeat that supporters are describing as a mudslide victory, according to provisional results reaching the Eye Media.
From the very first hour of voting, it became clear that the ground had shifted beneath Mbayo’s feet.
Voters, particularly the youth and women, turned out in large numbers to rally behind Nabirye — a candidate many saw as a breath of fresh air against the high-handedness and arrogance they had come to associate with Mbayo’s camp.
Nabirye’s victory was not only numerical but symbolic. It represented the rebellion of the grassroots against years of intimidation, manipulation, and militarization of the party structures. Many polling stations across Luuka reported overwhelming support for Nabirye, with presiding officers noting that in some villages, Mbayo garnered less than ten votes.
As at 5:00pm Thursday July 17, 2025, Nabirye had 21, 849 votes and Mbayo had 5,496. Despite the fact that there are other candidates, the race has always been between Annet and Mbayo.
The win is even more humiliating for Mbayo given the recent allegations that she was using soldiers to harass voters and disrupt the electoral process. In several areas, goons dressed in UPDF uniform, reportedly travelling in a taxi with registration number UBQ 765C, were accused of beating up voters, blocking polling stations, and openly working to scare off Nabirye’s supporters. But even that wasn’t enough to stop the wave.
“This is the end of arrogance. We are tired of being ruled like slaves in our own district,” shouted a jubilant supporter in Bukanga shortly after results were declared.
By midday, it was clear that Nabirye was headed for a clean sweep. In sub-counties like Bukooma, Nawampiti, and Bulongo, her victory margins were not just wide — they were historic. At one polling station, Nabirye scored 509 votes compared to Mbayo’s 11.
Political observers say this marks the beginning of a new political order in Luuka. “It is not just a defeat for Mbayo. It’s a message to all leaders who take the people for granted,” remarked a local analyst.
Nabirye has always promised inclusive leadership and reconciliation. “I forgive those who fought me. Let us now unite and build Luuka. We must
