As Uganda approaches a critical electoral period, the Leader of the Opposition and Nakawa West Member of Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, has called on Ugandans to participate in the forthcoming elections with courage while safeguarding peace and refusing to be provoked by political adversaries.
Ssenyonyi made the remarks during Christmas prayers marking the birth of the Saviour at St. John’s Church of Uganda in Kiwatule.
He expressed concern over the continued detention of members of the National Unity Platform (NUP) and other political detainees, saying such arrests persist even as the election season draws closer.
He noted that individuals perceived to be advocating for peace are often targeted through alleged human rights violations and arbitrary arrests, particularly during politically sensitive periods.
Despite this, Ssenyonyi urged citizens not to give in to fear or despair but to remain resolute and fully participate in the democratic process.
“The time for elections is upon us, and it is a sacred duty for every Ugandan to exercise their right to vote,” Ssenyonyi said. “But as we do so, let us not be intimidated. Let us not be swayed by those who seek to sow discord. Our resolve must be stronger than their provocations.”
The opposition leader also underscored the role of religious leaders in promoting calm and unity during the electoral season, urging the government to work closely with faith leaders to foster peace and reconciliation.
“Religious leaders hold a unique position of trust and influence within our society,” he said. “Their counsel on matters of peace and reconciliation is invaluable, especially at this time.”
Ssenyonyi further called on the Electoral Commission to uphold its mandate and ensure that elections are free, fair, and transparent. He urged the Commission to guarantee that voters are not disenfranchised and that polling stations remain accessible to all eligible voters.
“The Electoral Commission has a monumental responsibility to ensure a free, fair, and transparent election,” he said. “Voters must be able to reach their polling stations without undue difficulty or obstruction.”
He also cautioned against actions that could trigger post-election unrest, stressing that the electoral process must reflect the will of the people and be conducted in accordance with the law.
“Let us all work towards a victory that is undeniably earned and reflects the true desires of the Ugandan people,” Ssenyonyi said. “Our actions before, during, and after the elections must not create conditions for conflict.”
His remarks come amid heightened political activity and growing concerns from opposition groups and civil society organisations about political intimidation and the shrinking civic space ahead of the polls.