Robert Kyagulanyi, one of the presidential aspirants consoles with a supporter after the later was attacked by police last week
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I The Electoral Commission (EC) has condemned the violent clashes that erupted during presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s—popularly known as Bobi Wine—campaign rally in Gulu on Saturday, an episode that has once again cast a shadow over Uganda’s long-troubled election security landscape.
Uganda’s elections have historically been marred by episodes of violence. According to past reports from civil society and observer missions, the 2021 general election alone recorded over 50 deaths, hundreds injured, and more than 1,000 arrests linked to political unrest. The EU Election Observation Mission previously cited “pervasive intimidation and excessive use of force.” It is against this backdrop that the latest incident fuels renewed concerns about the safety of candidates and voters ahead of the polls.
In a statement issued Sunday morning, the EC described the Gulu confrontation as “unfortunate and uncalled for,” particularly disturbing because it happened just days after a joint meeting between campaign agents of all presidential candidates and the Uganda Police Force. The meeting had aimed to resolve campaign-related disputes and reinforce commitments to peaceful, lawful campaigning.
The Commission reiterated that such violence undermines its persistent appeals for calm, respect for the law, and cooperation among electoral stakeholders. It emphasized that every duly nominated presidential contender is legally entitled to campaign in any part of Uganda, provided they comply with electoral laws and guidelines issued by the Commission.
Further, the EC urged all parties—candidates, supporters, and security bodies—to address disagreements through dialogue instead of confrontation. It called on the Police to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the Gulu altercation and ensure that perpetrators are held to account in accordance with the law.
The statement also reminded security agencies that while they play a critical role in maintaining order, they must exercise restraint, avoid excessive force, and apply only lawful, proportionate, and humane measures when enforcing electoral rules.
Saturday’s incident attracted wide public attention after Bobi Wine alleged that he and members of his campaign team were assaulted by security personnel as they approached the rally venue. In messages posted on his X account, the candidate claimed he was struck across the face with a cane and that several supporters were injured and later hospitalised.
“Criminals in police and military uniform attacked us with sticks and stones and started beating up our people,” he wrote. “One of the thugs hit me with a stick on the face… several comrades are hospitalised. All this because Museveni is dead scared of the people.”
As investigations commence, the episode adds urgency to ongoing debates about electoral violence, accountability, and the need for stronger protections to guarantee that Uganda’s elections are free, fair, and genuinely peaceful.
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