Byabakama Warns Security Forces: Stop Blocking Presidential Candidates
By Kyeyune Ali | Kampala
The Electoral Commission (EC) has cautioned security agencies against obstructing duly nominated presidential candidates on the campaign trail, emphasizing the need for fairness and adherence to electoral laws.
This came during a closed-door meeting convened by the EC in Kampala, bringing together agents of all eight presidential candidates and senior officers from the Uganda Police Force. The session was aimed at reviewing the first week of campaigns, addressing emerging complaints, and fostering a peaceful and orderly political atmosphere.
EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi said the meeting provided a platform to “discuss what has worked, what hasn’t, and agree on a way forward to ensure a level playing field.”
“We convened a meeting of all agents of the candidates together with the police to discuss the progress of the campaign process so far, to hear any issues or complaints, and to agree on the way forward,” Mucunguzi noted.
In his remarks, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama reminded Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) and security personnel that they have no mandate to disrupt the activities of any presidential candidate.
“No RDC or security official has the authority to interrupt a duly-nominated presidential candidate,” Byabakama cautioned.
He further advised that any incidents of obstruction or interference be formally reported to the Commission for redress — including possible legal action.
Police, however, defended their operations. Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke acknowledged a few challenges but maintained that enforcement measures taken during campaigns were aimed at ensuring public safety and order, not bias.
The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge from all sides to respect the harmonized campaign programme, follow Electoral Commission guidelines, and avoid arbitrary restrictions that could inflame tensions or undermine the credibility of the electoral process.