Observers Urge Fairness in Kawempe North By-Election

Renowned researcher and election observer Charity Ahimbisibwe has urged the Electoral Commission (EC), led by Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, to take full control of the Kawempe North by-election, set for Thursday.

Citing past incidents where security operatives—both in uniform and plainclothes—were seen manhandling candidates and their supporters, Ahimbisibwe emphasized the need for the commission to demonstrate responsibility and ensure a fair electoral process.

She also advised candidates, polling agents, and supporters to actively safeguard their votes.

“The Electoral Commission should allow 100% deployment of all political parties participating in the election, including FDC, NUP, NRM, DP, and independent candidates,” Ahimbisibwe said. “These are small elections, so when we talk about full deployment, it means each party should have representatives at every polling station.”

Ahimbisibwe stressed that comprehensive party representation is crucial in preventing election disputes and gathering evidence in case of alleged malpractice.

“If a party claims it was cheated, it should have proof. You don’t just wake up and say, ‘We were cheated.’ Solid evidence is key, especially if the case ends up in court, which is often the last resort in a flawed electoral process,” she added.

With security deployments being a dominant feature since nomination day and throughout the campaigns, Ahimbisibwe said that once candidates and political parties receive clearance from the EC, Justice Byabakama—not security forces—should take charge of the process.

“Justice Byabakama is in charge of this election. He has always shared his contact freely, so every polling agent should have his number, along with those of other key EC officials,” she advised. “If security personnel block you despite EC clearance, call him immediately.”

She further encouraged polling agents to document any challenges they face.

“If he tells you there’s nothing he can do, record it. Note down the time, the call details, and his response. Documentation is key,” Ahimbisibwe said.

For a transparent process, Ahimbisibwe reiterated that all political parties are entitled to have polling agents at each voting station, regardless of the election outcome.

With over 225,000 voters expected to participate in the Kawempe North by-election, many observers see this contest as a preview of the political landscape ahead of the 2026 general elections.