Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi has demanded the resignation of Simon Byabakama, chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), accusing him of presiding over a biased electoral process marred by police brutality, selective arrests, and uneven enforcement of the law.
Kyagulanyi’s ultimatum follows what his party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), describes as a coordinated crackdown on its supporters across multiple districts during the 2025–2026 presidential campaign.
In a public statement, the two-time presidential candidate who is better known by his stage name Bobi Wine, criticised Byabakama for instructing voters, particularly those linked to the opposition, to leave polling stations immediately after voting — a move interpreted by NUP as an attempt to prevent independent monitoring.
According to party officials, security forces have detained more than 400 NUP supporters, including campaign coordinators and aides.
Incidents in Kampala, Mbarara, Arua, and Lira reportedly involved tear gas, water cannons, pepper spray, and physical violence, even during largely peaceful rallies and processions.
But on Tuesday, security forces left the nation aghast when they set hounds on NUP crowd in Kawempe, an incident widely condemned as one reminiscent of apartheid-era South Africa when dogs were let loose to maul Blacks.
The Commission did not condemn the dog incident while addressing the media on Tuesday with Byabakama instead choosing to speak about breach of electoral laws.
Kyagulanyi argued that the EC’s actions, combined with the selective enforcement of laws, reveal an effort to tilt the election in favour of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
“You cannot claim neutrality while your supporters are jailed, teargassed, and denied access, while the other side marches freely,” he said.
“It is either fairness — or you resign.”
The opposition frames the demand not as a political tactic, but as a defence of democratic dignity and the rights of Ugandans to vote without fear.
NUP contends that charges against supporters — ranging from “obstructing police” to “traffic offences” or “vandalism” — are politically motivated, aimed at suppressing dissent ahead of the election.
Observers warn that continued selective enforcement and crackdowns on opposition activity could discourage voter participation, erode legitimacy, and weaken public trust in the electoral process.
For many Ugandans, the call for Byabakama’s resignation reflects a deeper demand for institutions that ensure transparency, equal treatment, and genuine competition, rather than formalistic democracy.
As the January 2026 election approaches, the response of the EC and security agencies — whether tightening control or heeding calls for impartiality — will shape the political climate.
Kyagulanyi’s ultimatum has transformed the contest from a race between candidates into a referendum on the integrity of Uganda’s institutions.