The Electoral Commission (EC) has condemned the violent clashes that occurred during presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s (Bobi Wine) campaign rally in Gulu on Saturday.
In a statement released this morning, the EC described the incident as “unfortunate and uncalled for,” especially coming just days after a joint meeting between agents of all presidential candidates and the Uganda Police Force. The meeting was intended to resolve campaign-related concerns and reaffirm commitments to peaceful conduct throughout the election period.
The Commission reiterated that violence undermines its continued appeals for calm, respect for the law, and cooperation among all electoral stakeholders to ensure free, fair, and credible elections.
The EC emphasised that every duly nominated presidential candidate is legally allowed to campaign anywhere in Uganda, provided they follow electoral laws and the guidelines issued by the Commission. It urged all parties to address disagreements through dialogue rather than confrontation.
The Commission also called on the Police to thoroughly investigate the circumstances that led to Saturday’s altercation and ensure that those responsible are held accountable in accordance with the law. It further appealed to security agencies to exercise restraint and apply only lawful, proportionate, and humane measures while enforcing electoral rules.
The incident drew public attention after Bobi Wine reported that he and several members of his team were assaulted by security personnel as they approached a campaign venue. In posts shared on his X account late Saturday, Bobi Wine said he was struck in the face with a cane and that several supporters were injured and later hospitalised.
“Criminals in police and military uniform attacked us with sticks and stones and started beating up our people,” he claimed. “One of the thugs hit me with a stick on the face… several comrades are hospitalised. All this because Museveni is dead scared of the people.”
