Ugandans have been urged to turn up in large numbers and participate peacefully in the upcoming general elections scheduled for this Saturday, amid growing concerns over electoral violence, voter intimidation, and public confidence in the electoral process.
The call was made during a high-level consultative meeting convened by the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) at its headquarters in Mengo.
The meeting brought together religious leaders from different faiths and representatives from opposition political parties to dialogue on the state of the elections and promote peace and stability.
The meeting was chaired by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda and Chairperson of the Inter-Religious Council, Dr. Samuel Kazimba Mugalu, and was attended by leaders from various denominations, underscoring the Council’s commitment to inclusive national dialogue.
Opposition representatives used the platform to voice serious concerns about what they described as widespread injustice surrounding the electoral process. Lina Zedriga, speaking on behalf of opposition parties, cited voter intimidation and violence allegedly perpetrated by rival political camps.
“Many of our supporters are being harassed, and this violence does not even spare journalists, who are now living in fear,” she said.
The opposition also raised alarm over what they termed discriminatory electoral laws, arguing that some candidates had been unfairly forced out of the race.
“These laws are unfair and are deliberately pushing some of our people out of the electoral process,” Zedriga noted.
Concerns were further raised about the preparedness of the Electoral Commission, particularly regarding voter education. Opposition leaders accused the Commission of failing to adequately sensitize the public on the use of election materials, including voting machines.
“This lack of proper guidance could cause confusion and affect the credibility of the election,” they warned.
Additionally, the opposition called for clarity on alleged irregularities in the voter register, stating that continued silence from authorities had fueled anxiety and mistrust among voters.
Responding to the concerns, Archbishop Kazimba Mugalu acknowledged the grievances raised and assured participants that the Inter-Religious Council would engage relevant stakeholders to seek solutions.
“We have listened to you, and we are committed to engaging all relevant stakeholders to ensure these issues are addressed,” he said.
The Archbishop also announced the launch of a nationwide prayer initiative for peaceful elections, set to begin on the 9th of the month.
“We have launched a special prayer campaign for our country so that the elections can take place in peace,” he said.
Calling on citizens to reject violence, Archbishop Kazimba urged Ugandans to exercise their civic duty responsibly.
“Come out in large numbers and elect your leaders peacefully, without violence or hatred,” he appealed.
Following the meeting, religious leaders issued an official statement to the media, delivered by Bishop Joseph Serwadda of Pentecostal Churches outlining their collective message ahead of the polls. The statement highlighted the prevailing political tensions and warned of serious consequences should the elections be marred by violence.
Despite the challenges, the religious leaders appealed to Ugandans to prioritize peace and national unity, urging citizens to avoid actions that could undermine justice or threaten harmony.
They also cautioned key institutions, including the Electoral Commission and security agencies, to conduct themselves professionally, impartially, and with integrity throughout the electoral process.
As the country approaches polling day, the leaders called for calm and restraint in the post-election period, emphasizing respect for life above political interests.
“Those who win should celebrate responsibly without provoking others, and those who lose should value life above all else,” the statement read.
With just days to the elections, the Inter-Religious Council reiterated its commitment to fostering dialogue, peace, and reconciliation, urging all Ugandans to play their part in safeguarding the nation’s stability