By Robert Segawa
The Uganda Police Force has issued a stern warning to anyone planning to disrupt the Local Council (LC1) elections scheduled for tomorrow, saying offenders will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The Electoral Commission has designated July 28, 2026, for the election of village chairpersons across the country’s 71,214 villages.
Addressing the media this morning, Police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke said the police, together with other security agencies, are fully prepared to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process.
Rusoke warned that security personnel will not hesitate to arrest anyone involved in intimidation, threats, obstruction, tampering with the electoral process, or any other breach of the electoral laws.
He noted that some candidates have reportedly been threatening villagers who choose not to vote for them, describing such actions as illegal and urging candidates to allow voters to exercise their democratic right freely.
“We have received reports of candidates intimidating voters. Leave the decision to the electorate because it is their constitutional right to choose their leaders,” Rusoke said.
He also warned that security agencies will not tolerate gangs or groups intending to disrupt polling activities.
Rusoke further cautioned against campaigning on polling day, saying all forms of campaigning and processions at polling stations are prohibited.
“However much you campaign on polling day, leave the mandate to the voters since they may still not vote for you,” he said.
He urged all voters to adhere to the Electoral Commission’s guidelines and polling timetable to ensure a smooth voting process.
Rusoke emphasized that security agencies will take action against anyone found violating the law.
He also encouraged candidates and members of the public with complaints or electoral disputes to resolve them through the appropriate legal channels rather than resorting to violence or unlawful conduct.
