Uganda’s Electoral Commission condemned the violent clashes that erupted during candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s campaign rally in Gulu on December 6 2025, calling the incident unfortunate and uncalled for and urging the police to take swift action against those responsible.
In a statement dated December 7, 2025, the Commission noted that the confrontations undermined commitments made just days earlier by agents of all presidential candidates and the Uganda Police Force.
The Electoral Commission stressed that violent conduct has no place in Uganda’s democratic process.
“Violence is inconsistent with the Commission’s enduring calls on all stakeholders to act peacefully and in accordance with electoral laws to enable Ugandans have free, fair and credible elections,” the statement read.
Reaffirming the rights of all candidates, the Commission said that a duly nominated Presidential candidate is free to traverse any part of Uganda to campaign, provided he or she is acting in line with the law and guidelines issued by the Electoral Commission.
The statement emphasised that the freedom to campaign across the country is a cornerstone of Uganda’s electoral framework, and any attempts to obstruct it pose threats to the integrity of the process.
It urged political actors to prioritise dialogue over confrontation whenever disputes arise on the campaign trail.
“If there is any disagreement on any matter on the campaign trail, the Commission appeals for dialogue, not violence and confrontation,” it said, reaffirming the importance of communication, tolerance, and lawful conduct in safeguarding the electoral environment.
Calling for accountability, the Commission appealed to the Uganda Police Force to take decisive action.
It instructed law enforcement to investigate the circumstances that led to Saturday’s confrontation and ensure that those responsible are subjected to the full force of the law.
The statement conveys a clear expectation of thorough, impartial investigations that will illuminate the root causes of the escalation and produce consequences for those involved.
The Electoral Commission also cautioned security agencies on the manner in which they enforce electoral laws.
According to the statement, “The Commission further calls on law enforcement agencies to exercise restraint and use proportionate, lawful and humane means while enforcing compliance with electoral laws and guidelines.”
This appeal signals the Commission’s insistence that both security and rights must be balanced to maintain public trust and avoid further escalation.
The message, delivered by the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, reiterated the Commission’s constitutional obligation to secure a democratic environment in which all Ugandans can freely exercise their political rights.
The statement aligns with the Commission’s commitment to “regular free and fair elections and referenda,” reaffirming its responsibility to monitor, guide, and uphold the standards of the electoral process.
The Commission’s condemnation comes amid heightened campaign activity Uganda and the statement serves as a clear reminder that disruptions, whether from supporters, security actors, or external groups, will not be tolerated.
By urging restraint, lawful conduct, and thorough investigation, the Commission aims to re-centre the campaign season on peaceful competition and respect for legal frameworks.
As the 2025 electoral cycle intensifies, the Commission’s latest call sets the tone for the remaining campaign period, urging all actors to prioritise national stability, adherence to law, and the rights of every Ugandan voter.
