Justice Simon Byabakama has condemned the violent scenes that surrounded candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s campaign rally in Gulu on 6th December 2025.
Over the weekend, police and other security agencies of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) descended on Bobi Wine’s team, assaulting several members. Many people were left injured in the process.
These incidents followed the shooting of Misakai (Meserch) Okello, which occurred shortly after a campaign rally for National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine, in Iganga. Chaotic clashes also erupted in Kayunga, where several people were injured by tear gas and other crowd-control measures.
“As we await investigations into the incident to establish the root causes, the Commission wishes to state that this was unfortunate and uncalled for, especially coming just days after the meeting of all agents of presidential candidates and the Uganda Police Force, where everyone committed to peaceful conduct in accordance with the law,” Byabakama said.
He added that violence is inconsistent with the Commission’s continuous appeals for all stakeholders to act peacefully and in line with electoral laws, so that Ugandans can enjoy free, fair, and credible elections.
“A duly nominated presidential candidate is free to traverse any part of Uganda to campaign, provided he or she acts in accordance with the law and guidelines issued by the Electoral Commission,” he said.
He further noted that if disagreements arise during campaigns, the Commission appeals for dialogue rather than violence and confrontation.
The Commission has called on the police to investigate the circumstances that led to Saturday’s confrontation and to ensure that those responsible are subjected to the full force of the law.
Additionally, the Commission urged law enforcement agencies to exercise restraint and to use proportionate, lawful, and humane methods while enforcing electoral laws and guidelines.
