MP Wanda humiliated by ‘peasant’ Wopo in NRM elections

Bungokho Central MP and chairperson of the Bugisu parliamentary caucus, Richard Wanda, suffered a crushing political blow on Monday after losing a local-level race during the ongoing NRM parish grassroots elections.

Wanda, who contested for the position of parish publicity secretary in Mawawa parish, Nabumali town council, was defeated by a little-known local resident, Michael Wopo, in what residents are describing as a humiliating upset.

Wopo, a man many locals referred to as a “peasant,” garnered 17 votes, while the sitting MP managed just three. The results have sent shockwaves through Mbale’s political landscape, raising questions about how a sitting member of parliament with all the influence, visibility, and resources at his disposal could be so decisively rejected by his own constituents at the grassroots level.

Wanda, who reportedly spent two sleepless nights canvassing the area and pleading for support, was visibly shaken after the results but maintained composure as he conceded defeat.

“I accept the results as a gentleman, but I know how politics works. Someone powerful could be behind this. But for now, I have nothing to do — the locals have decided,” he said, his tone revealing a mix of disappointment and suspicion.

While not naming anyone specifically, Wanda hinted at possible political sabotage, suggesting that his defeat may have been engineered by a higher power within the ruling party. Still, he vowed to continue his political journey undeterred.

“The battle has just begun,” he declared, reaffirming his intent to defend his parliamentary seat in the forthcoming general elections. Meanwhile, Michael Wopo, the man who unseated the MP, basked in his unexpected victory.

Surrounded by jubilant supporters, Wopo thanked the voters for their trust and promised to serve with humility and diligence.

“This victory proves that grassroots elections truly reflect the will of the people. It shows how close I am to the villagers how much they believe in me,” he said. “Leadership is about service, not titles or status.”

Wanda’s defeat is the latest reminder of the unpredictable nature of grassroots politics in Uganda, where power and prestige don’t always translate into votes and where, increasingly, voters appear to be asserting their voice in ways that defy traditional hierarchies.