MUKONO.
The chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Simon Byabakama has urged Ugandans, especially the youth, to be ambassadors of peace, noting that there will be a heavy deployment of security for the 2026 general elections.
‘We must have security, this one I say it even without apologising, you have seen what happened in the NRM primaries,’Byabakama said this at Uganda Christian University [UCU], Mukono during the 27th Guild Government General Assembly.
‘Do you know elections in Uganda have become a business of do or die, because it has been commercialised as people sell their property for billion shillings to invest in elections” he said
He noted that a person who has invested a billion shillings in elections has no mindset to lose; this person must win, either way. “ Therefore, those who lose resort to any means, including unlawful and criminal actions, to win. We must have security”
“You have seen what has happened in the primaries. The mere primary elections of one with a flag have not gone well; what about the national one that is serving you the cake?” he asked
Justice Byabakama has called on the youth to take an active role in promoting peace ahead of next year’s general elections.
He emphasized the crucial role young people play in shaping the country’s democratic processes . He urged students to uphold the values of unity, tolerance, and non-violence throughout the electoral process.
On the issue of civic education, Justice Byabakama noted that the Electoral Commission has intensified efforts to raise awareness about voting rights and responsibilities. He revealed that more than 50 civil society organizations have been accredited to support civic education initiatives nationwide.
However, some of the participants, including Tamale Nkoyoyo, a law student, raised concerns about police brutality, abductions, particularly against opposition candidates, and alleged manipulation of election results.
The students stressed that while the Commission encourages youth to promote peace, it must also ensure a level playing field for all candidates, regardless of political affiliation.
They argued that peace in the 2026 elections will only be possible if fairness and transparency are guaranteed.
In response, Justice Byabakama reaffirmed the Electoral Commission’s commitment to neutrality, stating that it serves all Ugandans, not individuals or political parties. He assured the students that the 2026 elections would be free and fair.
Meanwhile, Emanuel Wabwire of Faraj Africa Foundation urged fellow youth to engage in peaceful and respectful advocacy. He cautioned against using social media to insult elders and leaders, warning that such behavior could provoke conflict during the election period.
Students who attended the assembly appreciated the Chairperson’s engagement, describing it as eye-opening. Many pledged to become peace ambassadors and to promote non-violence in their communities during the election period.