Security agencies have warned politicians to restrain their supporters from engaging in election-related violence, urging strict adherence to electoral laws, regulations, and acceptable campaign practices.
Kamuli Resident District Commissioner (RDC) and district head of security, Rose Birungi, condemned acts of violence among political supporters, noting that in some cases those clashing belong to the same political party—an action she said undermines the credibility of the electoral process.
Addressing the media on the district’s election security situation, Birungi issued a stern warning to candidates and their campaign teams.
“We strongly warn candidates to rein in their supporters, campaign brigades, and assistants against hate politics, violence, and disruptions,” Birungi said. “We shall apply the strong arm of the law against anyone who flouts election guidelines and laws as an individual. We cannot tolerate hooliganism and insecurity under the guise of electioneering.”
Meanwhile, Busoga North Region Police Spokesperson Samson Lubega reported that clashes have been registered in several election hotspots, including Budiope East, Bugabula South, and Kamuli Municipality.
Lubega assured the public that security agencies are fully prepared to manage the situation.
“We have received and responded to cases of violence and hooliganism. We warn anyone involved or planning to engage in such acts that we shall arrest and keep them in custody,” Lubega said. “We will not allow the security situation to degenerate into anarchy and lawlessness by thugs disguising themselves under the cover of elections.”
He added that security agencies have built sufficient capacity to counter disruptions and should not be taken lightly.
Lubega cited several recent incidents, including a report by Matthew Bazanya, whose official campaign vehicle was allegedly stoned at Ndalike in Namwendwa Sub-county, shattering the windscreen.
He also mentioned clashes between supporters of Mastula Namatovu and Baroda Watongola in Kamuli Municipality, as well as ongoing tensions between rival camps of Eng. Moses Magogo and Daniel Mulirire in Budiope East.
“We are treating these incidents as serious security threats intended to derail the electoral process, and individuals responsible will be held personally accountable for insecurity and lawlessness,” Lubega said.
Bazanya, the Kamuli District NRM Chairperson and flag bearer for Bugabula South Constituency, accused his opponent Sanon Dhizaala of ring-fencing Namwendwa Sub-county and Ndalike Parish as no-go zones for rival candidates.
Bazanya alleged that he was assaulted during his scheduled campaign visit to Ndalike—his opponent’s home village—and that his vehicle was vandalised.
“Nobody has a monopoly on hooliganism, and such actions are a sign of panic and weakness,” Bazanya said. “We expect civility in these campaigns if we are to serve our people. Threats and harassment do not help anyone.”
He added that instead of retaliating, he would continue engaging security agencies to ensure law and order prevails.
Security officials have called for calm as campaigns continue, warning that election-related violence will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
