The Uganda Police Force has directed all territorial commanders across the country to take firm action against acts of hooliganism amid rising violence in the ongoing National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kituuma Rusoke emphasized the importance of maintaining order during the electoral process.
“People need to realize that an election is not a do-or-die affair for either candidates or their supporters. The level of hooliganism we are witnessing is unacceptable. We have issued strong instructions to all our commanders to suppress any acts of violence during the election process,” ACP Rusoke said.
The directive follows the arrest of 16 individuals linked to election-related violence reported in several districts, including Mubende, Isingiro, and Rubanda.
In Mubende District, violence broke out on July 7 at Kyapa Kyeturege Trading Centre between supporters of NRM candidates Muhumuza Henry and Hon. Kabanda David.
The clashes escalated, resulting in the exchange of gunfire and injuries. One person, Gumisiriza Roger, sustained gunshot wounds, while others were assaulted with sticks and bricks.
The violence later spread to Nabingola Sub-county headquarters, where two vehicles, registration numbers UBP 452K (Toyota Noah) and UBP 788T (Toyota Wish) and a motorcycle (UFU 345X, Bajaj Boxer) were set ablaze.
Police responded promptly, contained the situation, and transported the injured to Mubende Regional Referral Hospital. Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, and investigations are ongoing.
In Isingiro District, another violent incident occurred on July 5 in Kyempisi Cell, Kikagate Sub-county, where a vehicle and two motorcycles were torched.
Ten suspects have been arrested, while others remain at large. In response, security officials convened a meeting on July 7 with NRM electoral officials and other stakeholders to discuss ways to de-escalate the situation.
Meanwhile, in Rubanda District, supporters of Minister Henry Musasizi were attacked on July 3 at Hakashanje Playground in Hamuhambo Town Council.
Stones were hurled at the minister’s convoy, damaging several vehicles. Police have pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Authorities reiterated that any individual involved in election-related violence will face the full force of the law, urging both candidates and supporters to promote peace and tolerance during the primaries.
