KAMPALA, 29 November 2025 — The Electoral Commission (EC), through its Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, has issued a strong statement today condemning recent violent clashes during the ongoing national campaign period, specifically citing an incident on Friday, November 28, 2025, that resulted in one death and multiple injuries.
The statement, released Saturday, expressed deep regret over the confrontations, which it described as being between “some candidates, their agents or supporters, and law enforcement.”
“In particular, the Commission condemns the violent episodes on Friday, 28th November, 2025, that resulted into the loss of one person and injury to others. Such incidents clearly do not add value to our democratic dispensation,” the statement read.
Justice Byabakama emphasized that the incidents were an unfortunate blight on an electoral process that has otherwise been “largely peaceful across the country,” involving over 83,000 candidates contesting more than 45,000 elective positions, ranging from Sub-county Councillor up to President.
The Electoral Commission chairperson called for immediate action to address the violence, demanding thorough investigations to determine the root causes of the clashes and ensure that culprits are held accountable.
“These incidents should be investigated to establish the root causes, and culprits should be held accountable in accordance with relevant laws,” the Chairperson stated.
”The Commission reiterates its call on all stakeholders… to conduct themselves peacefully and within the law.” He specifically urged candidates and their teams to “desist from using sectarian language that sows hatred, incites violence and provokes confrontation.”
Byabakama called on security agencies to ensure compliance with electoral laws and guidelines but stressed the need to apply “necessary means that are commensurate to the prevailing circumstances in a given area,” suggesting a measured response to confrontations.
He concluded by reaffirming EC’s commitment to delivering “regular free and fair elections and referenda.”
