By Kabuye Ronald
The Democratic Front (DF) has strongly condemned the election violence and widespread malpractices that marred the NRM primaries held yesterday. The party warned that if these vices go unchecked, they could spill over into the 2026 general elections.
The NRM held internal elections to select flag bearers for the upcoming 2026 parliamentary contests. However, the process was overshadowed by numerous irregularities, including violence, voter bribery, intimidation, and the alleged involvement of security agencies.
Addressing the media earlier today, Henry Lubowa, Chairperson of the Democratic Front’s Electoral Commission, said the violence witnessed during the primaries is a dangerous indicator of what could happen during the general elections. He called on Ugandans to denounce these acts and to reject all NRM candidates who obtained their party tickets through violence and malpractice.
“The behavior we witnessed in the NRM primaries sets a worrying precedent,” Lubowa said. “If not addressed, this culture of impunity and electoral fraud may define the 2026 general elections.”
The Democratic Front’s criticism came during the party’s ongoing nomination process for aspiring candidates at all political levels. During today’s session, several candidates returned their expression of interest forms and were officially nominated.
Among those nominated were George Ssemakula for Katikamu South, Moreen Nakuya for Woman Member of Parliament for Luweero District, Dr. Innocent Ssenyange for Bamunaanika Constituency, and Mulumba Edwin for Katikamu North. Additional candidates were nominated for both parliamentary and local government positions.
Speaking to journalists, Dr. Ssenyange and Mrs. Nakuya expressed their motivation to run for office, citing the lack of strong and effective representation for Luweero in Parliament.
Today marked the fourth day of the Democratic Front’s nomination process. Since the exercise began, over 150 candidates have submitted their expression of interest forms to the party’s Electoral Commission at both the parliamentary and local government levels.
