Electoral Commission (EC) Chairman Justice Simon Byabakama has spoken out strongly against the violent clashes involving NRM supporters who reportedly attacked National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters in Kiruhura District.
The incident happened as NUP’s presidential candidate prepared to campaign in Kazo and Kiruhura. Supporters dressed in yellow allegedly intercepted NUP teams, forcing the candidate to divert and hold his campaign in the neighbouring Kazo District.
Justice Byabakama described the actions as unacceptable and illegal, stressing that no group has the right to block any candidate from following a campaign schedule already approved by the EC. He urged all camps to exercise restraint and respect the Commission’s work.
He also condemned the tear-gassing of supporters at campaign venues. However, he noted that he could not comment on tear-gassing along the roads since he was not fully informed about the security considerations behind those actions.
Byabakama further reminded Ugandans not to interfere with EC operations on polling day. He discouraged voters from camping at polling stations after voting, saying each candidate has accredited agents to safeguard the process. Voters may only return for the vote-counting exercise.
The EC boss also warned individuals planning to wear “polling jackets” or disguise themselves as election officials, emphasizing that anyone interfering with the Commission’s work will be arrested.
