KAMPALA.The Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) has condemned what it called “violent attacks and disruption” of National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi ’s campaign trail, accusing the state and security agencies of undermining Uganda’s democratic process.
In a statement issued Saturday by ANT’s Acting National Coordinator, Alice Alaso , the opposition party cited incidents in Lira, Kiruhura, and Mbarara where police and security personnel allegedly interfered with NUP rallies, arrested supporters, and assaulted campaign staff.
Alaso described the pattern as “highly detrimental to the right of candidates and citizens to participate actively in the electoral process.”
“We are concerned about the harm occasioned to individuals and the glaring threats to life,” Alaso said, condemning what she termed “the disgusting humiliation and undressing of women during arrest,” which she called “a strong indictment of the NRM Government.”
She urged women in leadership to speak out against what she described as “barbaric treatment of fellow women.”
The statement comes a day after the Uganda Police Force confirmed multiple arrests in Mbarara, alleging that NUP supporters had assaulted officers, damaged property, and obstructed law enforcement.
Police maintained that their actions were aimed at curbing “criminality and public disorder,” insisting that the campaign period remains largely peaceful despite “isolated incidents of provocation.”
ANT, however, warned that the continued deployment of “unidentified, armed groups to harass Ugandans” could destabilize the country.
“We warn that this is a recipe for chaos and instability,” Alaso said, calling on the Electoral Commission to ensure that all candidates are “protected and facilitated to meet Ugandans.”
The opposition party also expressed solidarity with NUP, demanding a “safe, free, and fair campaign and electoral process” and the unconditional release of all detained campaign team members.
“We stand with NUP to demand justice and the release of all those grabbed and kidnapped by the regime,” the statement added.