As Uganda enters the final stretch of the NRM primaries, Police has issued a firm warning against election-related violence and disorder especially at tally centres.
In a statement marking the end of the official campaign period, police reiterated their commitment to a peaceful electoral process, announcing a strict ban on crowds and firearms at all tally centres across the country.
The directive is part of broader measures aimed at curbing tensions that have escalated in some areas during the campaign period.
“We will not tolerate crowds at tally centres, nor will firearms be allowed within these centres,” police emphasized. Only a limited number of accredited agents per candidate will be permitted access. “Anyone attempting to bring unauthorized individuals or goons will be denied entry.”
While the overall situation remains largely calm, security agencies acknowledged “isolated incidents of violence involving various political actors and camps,” despite clear guidelines issued by political parties and the Electoral Commission.
Authorities have noted a worrying trend of misconduct by some candidates and their agents, ranging from violent attacks, hiring of goons, vandalism of vehicles, waylaying of rival parties to the use of radio platforms to defame opponents through malicious allegations and sectarian innuendos.
Police added that in some cases, candidates have even used loud public address systems to disrupt the rallies of their rivals.
To counter this, security teams have “mapped out electoral hotspots and engaged political actors and other stakeholders extensively,” the statement said.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abbas Byakagaba has been on the ground personally, conducting field assessments in districts such as Sembabule, Mbarara, Isingiro, Kabale, Rukiga, and Rukungiri.
During his visits, he met with political actors, district security committees, and candidates involved in the NRM primaries, emphasizing the need for restraint and lawful conduct.
District security committees have been activated and are “actively working to promote harmony and maintain order,” police said.
In some areas, interventions have included dispersing crowds and arresting individuals involved in violence or incitement. However, authorities also praised regions that have experienced “total peace and civility” throughout the campaign season.
With the voting process now imminent, police are turning their full attention to managing order during polling and vote tallying.
“We do not expect any campaigning beyond today,” the statement read, reminding all political actors that the campaign window has officially closed.”
