Uganda’s Ambassador to Burundi and former NRA bush war commander, Matayo Kyaligonza, has fronted his son, Philip Kyaligonza, as his preferred candidate for the Kikuube District LC5 chairmanship, following the death of his son, Peter Banura, who died in a road accident.
The decision comes at a time of heightened political maneuvering in Kikuube District, where multiple aspirants are already positioning themselves for the seat left vacant by Banura.
Initially, Gen. Kyaligonza had thrown his weight behind his associate, Edward Mwesigwa Baligonzaki. However, that endorsement was challenged by a local mobilisation group known as “Koona,” which had played a key role in Banura’s election.
Members of the group reportedly opposed the move and instead pushed for continuity within the family, arguing that their earlier support had been tied to the Kyaligonza lineage. During burial arrangements for Banura, they urged the general to consider presenting another son as the successor.
Subsequent discussions at Kyaligonza’s residence in Kitiko, Kampala, appear to have shifted his position.
In a video now circulating online, the general indicated that after holding discussions with different stakeholders, he opted to withdraw his earlier backing of Pastor Baligonzaki. He explained that the consultations influenced him to reconsider and ultimately support his biological son for the position.
Kyaligonza further suggested that the push from supporters for a direct family successor played a central role in his decision, leading him to settle on Philip Kyaligonza as the candidate to replace his late brother.
The endorsement adds fresh momentum to an already competitive race, with several figures expressing interest. These include Michael Christopher Ayeranga, the district’s current vice chairperson; Opio Vincent Alpha; and Christopher Nkalu, who has reportedly resigned from his radio role at Radio Hoima to join the contest.
The evolving succession battle underscores the influence of family dynamics, political alliances, and grassroots mobilisation in shaping leadership contests within Kikuube, as the district heads toward a closely watched by-election.
Peter Banura died in an accident after winning another term as Kikuube District LCV chairman, as reported Here.
His father Matayo Kyaligonza is a bush war veteran who once escaped from Obote’s soldiers even when he was handcuffed, as detailed Here.
