The Electoral Commission (EC) has held a high-level engagement with senior officials of the Uganda Police Force to discuss measures aimed at ensuring a peaceful and orderly electoral process in Kawempe North, where a by-election is scheduled for March 13, 2025.
The meeting, which took place at the Electoral Commission headquarters on 7th Street, Industrial Area, was chaired by Justice Byabakama Mugeni-Simon, the EC Chairperson, and attended by Deputy Chairperson Hajat Aisha Rubega, alongside all commissioners.
The Uganda Police Force delegation was led by Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Frank Nwesegwa, the Director of Operations, accompanied by senior officers responsible for security in Kampala Metropolitan and Kawempe Division.
The primary focus of the discussions was the recent incidents of confrontation observed during the campaign period in Kawempe North. The Electoral Commission emphasized that elections are a democratic process and should not be marred by violence or intimidation.
“The Commission and all stakeholders hope that moving forward, there will be an improvement in the conduct of electoral activities, ensuring a harmonious relationship between security agencies and all actors involved in the process,” stated Julius Muchunguzi, the EC Spokesperson.
The Commission further underscored the importance of adherence to electoral guidelines and the law, urging candidates, their supporters, the media, and all stakeholders to uphold the principles of peaceful participation to prevent provocation and confrontation.
The meeting concluded with a resolution for continued engagement between the Electoral Commission and the Uganda Police Force, ensuring regular consultations on matters of security and orderliness throughout the electoral process.
This collaboration is expected to foster a secure and conducive environment for voters in Kawempe North, while also serving as a model for maintaining peace in electoral processes across the country.
Ten candidates have been nominated, and the Commission urges all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful and fair election.
This by-election was necessitated by the passing of the former Member of Parliament, Muhammad Ssegirinya, on January 9, 2025.
