The People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) has called for an independent audit of the 2026 general elections, insisting that the review be conducted by an autonomous body from outside the country to guarantee impartiality.
The party says the polls were marred by widespread chaos, violence, and irregularities, describing them as the most grossly mismanaged elections in Uganda’s history.
Addressing the media on Monday, PFF leader and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago said flaws were evident throughout the entire electoral process, from preparations and candidate nominations to the handling of petitions at the tribunal, polling day operations, and tallying at district centres.
“From the very beginning of the process, we observed glaring irregularities, intimidation, and abuses that undermined the credibility of the elections. That is why we are demanding a comprehensive and independent audit of everything that transpired,” Lukwago said.
PFF also raised concerns over the procurement and performance of biometric voter verification machines, noting that their failure on polling day caused delays and forced some voters to abandon the exercise.
The party said it was suspicious that the same machines later functioned during a subsequent vote, alleging possible collusion to deliberately sabotage the process.
In addition, PFF disputed the 71.6 percent victory announced in favour of President Museveni, claiming that the results declared by Electoral Commission chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama were computer-generated rather than based on tally sheets from district centres.
However, Electoral Commission spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi dismissed the claims, saying the law clearly outlines how electoral grievances should be addressed.
“Members of PFF understand the law very well, and they are aware that anyone dissatisfied with the electoral process has only one lawful avenue, which is petitioning the courts,” Mucunguzi said in a phone interview.
Looking ahead, PFF said its next course of action will include pushing for the release of all political prisoners held in both known and unknown detention centres, while mobilising other opposition parties to work together in what it described as a united struggle for justice and accountability.
