The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) has cautioned the Electoral Commission over what it describes as increasing silence in the face of intimidation and violence targeting some candidates during the ongoing campaign period.
In a statement delivered by Monsignor Charles Kasibante on behalf of IRCU Chairperson Dr Steven Kaziimba Mugalu, the council warned that the incidents unfolding across the country threaten the integrity of the electoral process and undermine citizens’ right to freely listen to candidates before making informed choices.
“These actions during the election period deny voters their right to freely listen to all candidates and make informed decisions. All actors involved in the electoral process should fulfil their responsibilities to ensure Uganda attains a free and fair election,” Kasibante said.
IRCU expressed concern that campaigns are increasingly straying from established electoral guidelines, and that the Electoral Commission, mandated to provide oversight, has “remained silent” on the growing irregularities.
Kasibante stressed that the Commission must urgently address these escalating incidents to protect democratic principles.
“If the Electoral Commission does not take these issues seriously, it will undermine democracy and the rights of voters,” he warned.
The council cited multiple incidents, including clashes in western Uganda where supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) were reportedly attacked by National Resistance Movement (NRM) supporters.
IRCU also condemned cases where campaign routes were blocked, forcing candidates to take alternative roads, thereby limiting their ability to reach voters.
However, the Electoral Commission insisted that maintaining peace is a shared national responsibility.
“Ensuring that the country has peaceful elections is everyone’s responsibility. All citizens must play their part in maintaining peace,” said EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi.
Mucunguzi dismissed claims that the Commission is neglecting its duties, stating that the disturbances are “caused by individuals, not the institution.”
He also urged religious leaders to guide the public on proper conduct during the elections and support responsible behaviour among their followers.
As Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections, IRCU and other civic groups are calling on state institutions, political actors, and citizens to remain vigilant and prioritise peace throughout the campaign period.