A remarkable story of democracy, unity and peaceful coexistence unfolded in Buyondo Village, Zirobwe Sub-county, where two immediate neighbors contested against each other for the position of Village Chairperson before ending the election with a powerful message of reconciliation.
The contest pitted Faizal Lubega, the incumbent NRM Village Chairperson, against his next-door neighbor John, who contested on the NUP ticket. Although the two campaigned on different political platforms, the election remained peaceful throughout, with residents demonstrating political maturity and respect for one another.
When the votes were counted, the people of Buyondo overwhelmingly renewed their confidence in Faizal Lubega, who secured 180 votes against 20 votes garnered by his neighbor John, handing the NRM candidate a commanding victory.
Speaking after his victory, Lubega thanked the people of Buyondo for entrusting him with another term in office. He also expressed gratitude to Hon. Dr. J.C. Muyingo, saying the continued implementation of government development programmes and services in the area had strengthened public confidence in the NRM leadership.
“I am grateful to the people of Buyondo for believing in my leadership once again. I will continue serving every resident equally, regardless of political affiliation. My focus will remain on ensuring government programmes reach our people, implementing the NRM manifesto at the grassroots, encouraging commercial farming, supporting youth employment and improving household incomes,” Lubega said.
What followed after the declaration of results became the biggest talking point in the village. In an extraordinary display of unity and sportsmanship, part of the victory celebrations was held in the compound of the defeated candidate, proving that political competition had not broken the strong bond between the two neighboring families.
Residents described the gesture as a rare and inspiring example of democracy, where elections end not in hostility but in friendship, reconciliation and mutual respect.
The chief guest, Wasswa Abdulkarim Tamale, the ONC Regional Coordinator, congratulated both candidates and praised residents for maintaining peace before, during and after the election.
Tamale called upon residents to put politics behind them and concentrate on development.
“Now that the election is over, the time for politics has ended. Let us unite as one people and focus on work. Let us embrace farming, support government wealth creation programmes, create opportunities for our young people and continue building a peaceful and prosperous community. Elections should never divide neighbors but instead strengthen our democracy and unity,” Tamale said.
He further urged all residents, irrespective of their political affiliation, to support government initiatives aimed at fighting poverty and improving livelihoods, emphasizing that development benefits everyone.
Residents hailed the election as a model of peaceful democratic competition, saying Buyondo Village had demonstrated that political rivals can remain good neighbors. The image of supporters celebrating together—even in the compound of the defeated candidate—left many inspired, reinforcing the message that unity and development should always triumph over political differences.
