Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has warned political actors and their supporters to stop hanging campaign posters and flags on electricity power lines and other power infrastructure, saying the practice is dangerous and illegal.
The warning follows a viral video showing suspected National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters climbing an electric pole and hanging a Uganda flag near high-voltage power lines during the ongoing pre-election period.
UEDCL Head of Corporate and Stakeholder Affairs, Mr. Jonan Kiiza, said such actions put lives at risk and can disrupt electricity supply.
“These acts are extremely dangerous not only to those hanging or placing them, but to the entire community because they can cause unwarranted power blackouts and cause personal harm or electrocution to anyone who gets in close contact with energized lines,” Kiiza said.
UEDCL noted that electricity poles, transformers and power lines are not meant for campaign activities and warned that interference with power infrastructure can lead to fatal accidents and damage to critical equipment.
The company added that the actions violate Section 87(1) of the Electricity Act, 2022 (as amended) and called on political leaders and the Electoral Commission to discourage supporters from engaging in such risky behavior.
UEDCL urged the public to avoid working near or under power lines and to report any unsafe activities involving electricity assets.
The power distributor said it remains committed to public safety and to maintaining reliable electricity supply during the election period and beyond.
