Tororo District security leaders have convened an emergency meeting with parliamentary candidates for Tororo Municipality amid escalating concerns over election-related violence as Uganda’s general elections approach.
The move follows a recent clash between rival supporters that left several injured and property damaged.
The meeting came after a violent confrontation on Tuesday evening at Mile One in Tororo town between supporters of independent candidate Shyam Tanna and those of the incumbent Member of Parliament, Apollo Yeri Ofwono.
The clash reportedly occurred when Tanna’s supporters were heading to campaign and encountered Ofwono’s supporters along the way.
Police confirmed that several of Ofwono’s supporters sustained injuries and are receiving treatment at Specialist Plaza Hospital.
In addition, a drone van belonging to Tanna was damaged, with its windows shattered during the incident.
Following the violence, both candidates rushed to Tororo Central Police Station, each accusing the other’s supporters of instigating the attack.
In response, security authorities called an emergency meeting involving all seven parliamentary candidates contesting the Tororo Municipality seat to prevent further escalation.
The session was chaired by Tororo Resident District Commissioner Sadiq Bategana alongside Commissioner of Police Patrick Lawot.
Candidates were strongly cautioned against engaging in or promoting violence and urged to conduct peaceful, lawful campaigns.
Security officials also instructed them to ensure their supporters refrained from violent acts and respected the rights of others to support candidates of their choice.
Police emphasized that anyone found breaking the law would be held accountable, warning that no offender would be left at large.
During the meeting, candidates also raised concerns about widespread voter bribery in the municipality. Security officials reminded contestants that bribery is illegal and urged them to avoid the practice.
Additionally, candidates were warned against night campaigning, which has become increasingly common despite being prohibited.
As campaigns enter their final days ahead of the polls, security agencies highlighted Tororo Municipality as a hotspot for electoral tensions, citing incidents ranging from poster defacement to physical attacks among supporters.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring a peaceful electoral process and urged all stakeholders to prioritize calm and adherence to the law.
