As Uganda gears up for the January 15, 2026 Presidential and Members of Parliaments polls, the country continues to witness a series of violent clashes between political supporters and security forces, prompting firm warnings from the Uganda Police Force (UPF).
Police say the tension has primarily involved supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP), who have repeatedly flouted electoral guidelines.
Incidents range from assaults on police officers to attacks on vehicles, and stone-throwing at campaign rallies, leaving both civilians and officers injured.
On October 28, 2026 in Lira District, NUP supporters reportedly punctured the tires of a police vehicle, removed its key chip sensor, and stole some property from officers.
A day later, in Abim District, a man named Emmanuel Edibu was hospitalized following an attack by alleged NUP affiliates.
Clashes escalated during campaign processions. On November 24, 2025, in Kawempe North and South, officers were pelted with stones while trying to maintain order during a NUP-led rally.
Multiple arrests were made, and suspects have been charged, an act which had been condemned by the NUP leadership.
In Iganga District on November 28, 2025, stone-throwing erupted after a campaign rally, resulting in the death of one civilian during crowd dispersal.
On several occasions, the NUP presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, and party leadership have accused some law enforcement officers of disrupting their peaceful activities under the guise of maintaining order, allegations that the police have consistently refuted.
In statement, Uganda’s Inspector General of Police, Abas Byakagaba condemned the violence, stating, “We strongly condemn all forms of electoral violence and lawlessness. The Uganda Police Force will not tolerate actions that threaten public order. Every citizen and political actor has a right to participate in elections, but these rights come with responsibilities.”
He emphasized the delicate balance between the right to political expression and the need for public safety, noting that enforcement of the law will continue to ensure peaceful elections.
He stressed that acts such as assaults on officers, stone-throwing, destruction of property, and unauthorized rallies will be prosecuted.
The force urged all political actors to respect campaign laws, warning that attempts to form private security outfits or defy police directives will be met with strict enforcement.
“There can never be elections where there is no peace,” Byakagaba said, reaffirming the commitment of the police and sister security agencies to uphold order and protect constitutional rights before, during, and after the elections.
