Police in Kiboga District have launched investigations after unknown individuals inscribed political messages on a public road, an incident authorities say was intended to stir political emotions and undermine public order ahead of the 2026 general elections.
According to police, the incident occurred at around 11:20pm on Tuesday night along the Kampala–Kiboga–Hoima highway in Lwamata Town Council.
Witnesses reported seeing two individuals, believed to be supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP), hastily painting the words “Protest Vote” in large letters on the tarmac before fleeing on a motorcycle without registration plates.
Wamala Region Police Spokesperson, SSP Lameck Kigozi, confirmed the incident and said investigations to identify and arrest the suspects are underway.
“While the Ministry of Works and Transport has the lawful mandate to inscribe or mark public roads for official purposes, it is illegal and dangerous for civilians to deface roads with politically charged messages,” SSP Kigozi said.
“Such actions amount to sabotage driven by political motives, and anyone found culpable will be prosecuted.”
He cautioned members of the public against engaging in activities that compromise public infrastructure or threaten public order, particularly during what he described as a politically sensitive period.
“We urge all residents in the region to desist from these acts. Political competition should never lead to criminal behavior or actions that endanger road users,” Kigozi added.
Police said they are reviewing CCTV footage and gathering community intelligence to track down the individuals involved.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has not yet issued an official statement on the incident, but officials have previously warned that unauthorized markings on public roads pose safety risks and interfere with government operations.
The incident comes as political mobilisation intensifies across the country, with security agencies urging calm, restraint, and respect for the law as Uganda heads toward the 2026 general election season.
