By Political parties under the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD) have condemned what they described as increasing brutality by security agencies against candidates during ongoing election campaigns, warning that such actions threaten democratic principles and public confidence in the electoral process.
Speaking at an IPOD briefing on Wednesday , IPOD Chairperson Gerald Siranda said violence by security personnel undermines citizens’ constitutional right to freely participate in political activities and erodes trust in state institutions.
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“Such actions undermine public trust, democratic principles and the right of citizens to freely participate in political processes,” Siranda said, adding that elections should be conducted in an atmosphere of tolerance, fairness and respect for the law.
Siranda, however, also cautioned candidates and their agents against provoking security agencies, noting that some incidents of violence have been triggered by irresponsible conduct during campaigns.
“At the same time, we condemn candidates and their agents who resort to violence to engage or provoke security agencies,” he said. “We urge all actors to conduct themselves responsibly and adhere to the agreed standards, guidelines and code of conduct governing campaigns.”
NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong said the reported incidents of brutality were negatively affecting the campaign environment and called for restraint by all parties involved.
“This brutality is affecting the campaign process,” Todwong said, stressing that peaceful political engagement is essential for credible elections.
Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) Secretary General Fred Ebil echoed the concerns, warning that continued violence could destabilise the electoral process if not addressed promptly.
IPOD leaders urged security agencies, candidates, supporters and citizens to exercise restraint as campaigns enter their final stages, noting that tensions typically rise toward the end of the campaign period.
“As we stand united in the pursuit of peace and national cohesion, let us remember that elections are not just about individual candidates, but about the future of Uganda as a whole,” Siranda said.
The IPOD leaders reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue, peaceful political engagement and cooperation in the national interest, saying Uganda’s future depends on unity, responsible leadership and respect for diversity.
They also used the occasion to wish Ugandans a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year 2026, urging all stakeholders to prioritise peace, stability and national cohesion throughout the electoral process.
IPOD brings together political parties represented in Parliament, including the National Resistance Movement (NRM), National Unity Platform (NUP), Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), among others.
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