As parliamentary candidates prepare to officially launch campaigns on November 10th, National Unity Platform (NUP) flag bearers in Masaka City have accused security agencies of intimidating supporters and targeting party members ahead of the elections.
Addressing journalists in Masaka, the group led by Lubowa Ssebina Gyaviira, NUP flag bearer for Nyendo–Mukungwe Division, alongside Masaka City Mayor and NUP regional coordinator Florence Namayanja, Rose Nalubowa (Masaka City Woman MP candidate), and Patrick Kuteesa (Kimaanya–Kabonera Division candidate), described the current security environment as hostile and politically motivated.
Lubowa accused security personnel of failing to act against individuals vandalizing opposition campaign posters, while allegedly harassing and detaining NUP supporters.
“The security forces are turning a blind eye to those destroying our campaign materials, but are quick to arrest our people and threaten candidates,” he said.
He also criticized Masaka City Resident City Commissioner Ahmad Washaki for downplaying incidents targeting NUP members, warning that the party will no longer tolerate intimidation.
“I have nowhere to run. If they want to kill me, they can do so, but we shall not abandon our campaign. We are contesting to serve our people, not to live in fear,” Lubowa added.
The candidates called on security agencies to remain impartial and professional, urging authorities to avoid political interference.
Mayor Namayanja reiterated the party’s commitment to peaceful campaigns while emphasizing that NUP will defend itself if provoked.
“We believe in peaceful campaigns. Let there be no violence or intimidation as candidates seek votes,” she appealed.
Rose Nalubowa urged the Electoral Commission to guarantee equal protection for all candidates and to take action against those vandalizing campaign posters.
“Elections are not a battlefield. Every candidate deserves a fair and peaceful campaign,” she emphasized.
Patrick Kuteesa said the rising hostility from authorities signals that NUP is gaining traction and positioned to take leadership in the country.
The party announced that its first campaign rally will be held on November 12th in Nyendo Division, with plans to welcome NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) to Masaka on November 29th at Liberation Square—a venue they insisted should remain accessible to all candidates.
