KAMPALA.
The Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, has called for an end to violence and obstruction during election campaigns.
In his Christmas message , the Kabaka said some candidates and supporters had been harmed during the campaign period, citing reports of beatings, blocked access to campaign venues and other actions he said violated the law and fundamental human rights.
“Many of our people have been subjected to harm, including beatings, blocking candidates from accessing the places where they plan to speak to voters, and other acts that break the law and violate fundamental human rights,” he said in a statement issued on Wednesday evening.
The Kabaka appealed directly to the Electoral Commission (EC) to play an active and neutral role in ensuring a level playing field.
“We call upon our compatriots in the national Electoral Commission not to remain silent on this matter, but to offer impartial support and ensure that every candidate is able to deliver their message to voters without obstruction or harassment of any
He said such actions undermined civility and national progress. “We condemn these actions because they do not reflect civility or the development of our country,” he added.
His remarks come amid disputes over campaign conduct involving the National Unity Platform (NUP) and security agencies.
Opposition leaders say rallies have been disrupted and supporters arrested or dispersed, while police say they are enforcing campaign guidelines and maintaining public order.
The EC recently warned NUP presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, of possible “firm action” over what it described as repeated violations of electoral laws.
In a letter dated December 18, EC chairperson Simon Byabakama said police had recorded 62 alleged offences linked to Kyagulanyi’s campaign activities, including incitement to hatred, unlawful assembly and failure to comply with campaign guidelines.
Kyagulanyi and NUP have denied wrongdoing, saying enforcement has been selective and aimed at constraining opposition campaigning. Security agencies say the law is applied uniformly to all candidates.
The Kabaka also cautioned against the growing role of money in politics, saying excessive spending risked distorting democratic competition and weakening public trust in leadership.
The Kabaka urged political actors, electoral officials and citizens to uphold peaceful, fair elections, saying respect for the law and human rights was essential for national stability and long-term development.