Electoral Commission Condemns Violence at Kyagulanyi Rally in Gulu
Gulu, Uganda — The Electoral Commission (EC) has condemned the violent confrontations that erupted during presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s campaign rally in Gulu on Saturday, 6 December 2025.
In an official statement issued by EC Chairperson Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, the Commission described the incident as “unfortunate and uncalled for,” noting that it occurred just days after a meeting between agents of all presidential candidates and the Uganda Police Force aimed at promoting peaceful campaigns.
According to the Commission, all parties at that earlier meeting had committed to lawful and non-violent conduct throughout the 2026 campaign season.
The EC reaffirmed that every duly nominated presidential candidate is legally free to campaign in all parts of the country as long as they comply with electoral laws and Commission guidelines. The statement emphasized that any disagreements that arise during campaign activities should be addressed through dialogue rather than confrontation.
Justice Byabakama called on the Uganda Police Force to investigate the events that led to the clashes and to ensure that anyone found responsible faces the law. He also urged security agencies to exercise restraint and to apply “proportionate, lawful and humane” methods while enforcing compliance with electoral regulations.
The Commission reiterated its long-standing appeal for peaceful conduct, stressing that violence undermines efforts to deliver free, fair and credible elections ahead of the 2026 presidential polls.
