The Electoral Commission has condemned the violent confrontations that broke out in Gulu on Saturday, 6th December 2025, during a campaign rally by presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Commission Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama described the incident as “unfortunate and uncalled for,” especially at a time when the country is preparing for crucial general elections in early 2026.
According to eyewitness accounts circulating on local media, tensions escalated when groups of rival supporters clashed near the campaign venue, prompting police to intervene. Although full details are still emerging, the incident has raised concerns about the increasing political temperatures across parts of northern Uganda, a region that has historically played a significant role in shaping election dynamics.
Byabakama noted that the clashes came only days after a meeting between the Uganda Police Force and representatives of all presidential candidates, where parties agreed to ensure peaceful campaigns and address grievances through established channels. “Violence is inconsistent with the Commission’s guidance to all stakeholders to act peacefully and in accordance with the electoral laws,” he said.
Uganda has experienced sporadic violence during election periods, often fueled by competition between supporters, disputes over campaign venues, and allegations of selective law enforcement. In past elections such as the 2016 and 2021 polls, clashes were recorded in several districts, prompting repeated calls for better coordination between candidates, their agents, and security agencies.
In northern Uganda, where political loyalties have become more fluid over the years, candidates have been stepping up their campaigns to appeal to young voters and communities recovering from decades of conflict and underdevelopment. Analysts say the region’s high youth unemployment and frustrations over slow service delivery often make campaign spaces more emotionally charged.
Saturday’s confrontation, therefore, fits into a broader pattern of tensions building up as campaigns intensify nationwide. However, electoral observers note that timely interventions by the Commission and security agencies can help prevent such incidents from escalating in the coming weeks.
Byabakama reaffirmed that every duly nominated presidential candidate is free to campaign in any part of Uganda as long as they follow the law and guidelines issued by the Commission. This includes notifying authorities of planned rallies, avoiding provocative behavior, and ensuring that supporters act responsibly.
He emphasized that disagreements on the campaign trail should be resolved through dialogue rather than confrontation. “If there is any disagreement on any matter, the Commission appeals for dialogue, not violence,” the statement reads.
The Commission has called on the Uganda Police Force to conduct a thorough investigation into the causes of the Gulu incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. This includes establishing whether the clash was triggered by rival mobilisers, misunderstandings with security personnel, or external provocations.
At the same time, Byabakama reminded law enforcement officers to exercise restraint when managing campaign events. “Agencies must use proportionate, lawful, and humane means while enforcing compliance with electoral laws,” he said.
Over the past few election cycles, human rights groups and civil society organizations have repeatedly raised concerns about the use of excessive force during political events. The Commission’s reminder is therefore seen as a caution aimed at preventing confrontations between supporters and security forces.
With barely weeks left to the 2026 elections, the Commission is urging all candidates, supporters, local leaders, and security agencies to prioritize peace. It stresses that free, fair, and credible elections can only take place when campaign activities are conducted in an orderly and respectful manner.
The Gulu incident, observers say, should serve as a warning about the potential for political disputes to escalate if not handled carefully. For now, all eyes are on the outcome of police investigations and the steps stakeholders will take to restore calm as campaigns continue across the country.
Byabakama appealed to Ugandans to remain law-abiding and allow the democratic process to unfold without violence.