Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairperson of Uganda’s Electoral Commission, has expressed significant concerns about the persistent election-related violence in the country, calling for immediate and decisive measures as Uganda approaches the 2026 polls.
Byabakama pointed out the troubling pattern of political actors engaging in violence before, during, and after elections. He emphasized that those responsible “must be identified and isolated to ensure that the law can take its course effectively.”
“It’s the mandate of everyone who has a stake in Uganda to ensure a violence-free election,” Byabakama asserted, highlighting the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in promoting a peaceful electoral environment.
Election violence in Uganda has been a recurrent issue, severely undermining the integrity and credibility of the electoral process. The 2021 elections, for instance, were marred by significant unrest, including the arrest of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), which led to widespread protests and a harsh crackdown by security forces. These incidents resulted in numerous deaths and injuries, casting a shadow over the electoral process and discouraging voter participation.
Such violence not only intimidates the electorate but also disrupts the overall democratic process. Byabakama expressed deep concern that the continuation of such violence prevents citizens from participating freely in elections and poses a threat to the country’s investment climate and peace.
The Electoral Commission chairperson’s remarks underscore the urgent need for a concerted effort to ensure that the upcoming 2026 elections are conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner, thereby safeguarding Uganda’s democratic integrity and stability.
