As the campaign period enters its final days, parliamentary candidates in Mityana District are increasingly turning their attention to vote protection and electoral preparedness ahead of the January elections.
With only days remaining before Ugandans head to the polls, candidates say they are now prioritising strategies aimed at safeguarding votes, promoting transparency, and encouraging peaceful participation.
Dr Kizza Martin Ssemambo, a candidate for the Mityana Municipality parliamentary seat, said his campaign has so far been successful despite what he described as overwhelming financial pressures during this election cycle.
“The campaign has gone on well even with the high financial demands,” Dr Ssemambo said, noting that his team has shifted from large rallies to smaller, targeted community engagements.
“These final days are crucial. We are focusing on civic education—teaching people why their vote matters and why they must participate peacefully.”
He said the remaining campaign period will be spent strengthening polling-day structures and sensitising supporters on what to expect at their respective polling stations.
According to Dr Ssemambo, vote protection has become a top priority for candidates seeking a credible electoral process.
“We want our people to understand how to vote correctly, how to protect their vote, and why they should reject any form of intimidation or bribery,” he said. “A peaceful election benefits all of us as citizens.”
Campaign activity in Mityana has been vibrant in recent months, with candidates from different political parties crisscrossing villages, trading centres, and town councils to consolidate support.
However, as election day approaches, the focus has shifted from persuasion to preparedness.
Local observers say candidates are now deploying polling agents, conducting final door-to-door visits, and holding town-hall meetings aimed at reducing tension and encouraging issue-based decision-making.
Community leaders and civil society groups have also cautioned that the final days before voting are often marked by heightened emotions and misinformation, urging candidates to promote calm and accuracy in their messaging.
Dr Ssemambo echoed those calls, saying the responsibility to maintain stability rests with all actors.
“Elections come and go, but we remain one people. Whatever happens on polling day, we must protect our peace and unity,” he said.
The January polls are expected to be highly competitive across Mityana District, with both incumbents and new entrants battling for parliamentary seats. As the race tightens, emphasis on vote protection and peaceful participation continues to grow among candidates and voters alike.
