During a pre-polling stakeholders meeting held at Dwoli Primary School Wednesday evening, the Electoral Commission Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama emphasized that any instances of electoral violence during or after the elections would not be tolerated.
Simon Byabakama, the Chairperson electoral commission speaking during the pre polling stakeholders meeting ad Dwoli Primary school in Kitoba sub county.Photo by Emmanuel Okello
The Electoral Commission (EC) has issued a
stern warning against any form of electoral violence during the Hoima district
LC V Chairperson by-election. The by-election is being held following the death
of the former LCV Chairperson, Kadir Kirungi, in a motor accident earlier this
year.
During a
pre-polling stakeholders meeting held at Dwoli Primary School Wednesday evening,
the Electoral Commission Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama emphasized that
any instances of electoral violence during or after the elections would not be
tolerated. He called on candidates to ensure that both their agents and voters
conduct themselves peacefully.
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Byabakama noted that the commission is fully
prepared to deliver a free, fair, and credible election. Stephen Tashobya, the electoral
commissioner overseeing Bunyoro, called on security forces, candidates, and
voters to maintain peaceful conduct during and after the elections. He warned
that anyone found violating electoral laws would face consequences.
Merab Kasanda, the Hoima district Returning
Officer, reported that the campaigns had been peaceful, with all candidates
adhering to electoral guidelines. Vincent Mwesigye, the Albertine regional
police Commander, assured the public that they are fully prepared to maintain
peace during and after the elections. He mentioned the deployment of both
police and Uganda People's Defense Forces (UPDF) soldiers.
According to
data from the Electoral Commission, there are 173 polling stations in Hoima,
with a total of 94,824 registered voters, including 48,532 females and 46,292
males. The election features five candidates: Uthman Mubarak Kadir Mugisa of
the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Patrick Musinguzi of the Forum for
Democratic Change (FDC), Moses Aguuda of the National Unity Platform (NUP),
Vincent Muhumuza Savana as an independent candidate, and Lenox Mugume, also
running as an independent.
