By The Electoral Commission has condemned the violent confrontations that erupted on Saturday, 6 December 2025, during a roadshow and campaign event for presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu in Gulu City, warning that the clashes undermine the integrity of the 2026 election campaign process.
In a statement signed by EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, the Commission described the incident as “unfortunate and uncalled for,” especially coming shortly after a joint meeting of all presidential candidates’ agents and the Uganda Police Force (UPF), which had resolved to foster peaceful and orderly campaigns.
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The statement affirmed that “a duly nominated Presidential candidate is free to traverse any part of Uganda to campaign,” provided they act in line with law and guidelines issued by the EC. However, it emphasised that disagreements must be resolved through dialogue not violence.
According to reports, moments before the scheduled rally at Awere Sports Ground in Bardege-Layibi Division, groups of youth identifying themselves as street gangs described by witnesses as armed with bottles, stones and sticks stormed the venue around 2:10pm. They violently attacked anyone present, vandalised campaign equipment and vehicles, and caused widespread panic.
As chaos ensued, security forces including police and soldiers from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) reportedly blocked the entry of Kyagulanyi and his entourage into Gulu City. The candidate and his security detail were prevented from accessing the city via certain roads which had been barricaded, forcing them to walk long stretches on foot amid heavy security presence.
He and his supporters allege the operation was well coordinated, claiming that both unidentified gangs and uniformed officers were involved in the assault and subsequent disruption. Several supporters were reportedly injured, and campaign property damaged.
Kyagulanyi accused the state of orchestrating a crackdown on opposition activity. “This is what the regime does when it fears the people,” he said after the rally, calling the turn of events a continuation of “systematic intimidation.”
In its statement, the EC appealed to law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate the cause of the Gulu confrontation and hold those responsible accountable under the law. It also urged security forces to exercise restraint, use proportionate and humane measures when enforcing compliance, and safeguard citizens’ right to campaign and free assembly.
“With campaigns underway across the country,” the EC warned, “such incidents pose a serious threat to free, fair and credible elections.”
Human rights groups and opposition parties swiftly condemned the violence. At least five supporters of Kyagulanyi were reported injured. The candidate’s party says the attack reflects a pattern of harassment, while critics argue it undermines democratic space and the fairness of the campaign environment.
As investigations unfold, the 2026 presidential campaigns now face heightened scrutiny with the EC under pressure to ensure equal access, safety for political activity, and respect for electoral law nationwide.
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