At least 10 people were seriously injured in Nampirika A village, Nakalama subcounty, Iganga District, following violent clashes during the election for the local council one NRM flag bearer.
The victims sustained deep cuts to their heads, hands, and other parts of their bodies, and were rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
The violence erupted when supporters of Farouk Nampala, who was leading in the vote count, accused his opponent, Pastor Stephen Walekwa, of importing voters to sway the election in his favour.
Tensions boiled over as a group of Nampala's youthful supporters attacked those they believed to be imported voters, dragging them out of the queue and beating them with sticks and stones, leaving several unconscious.
Nampala, who was ahead in the count when the chaos began, blamed Walekwa for inciting the violence.
He remained defiant in his confidence, saying, “I am aware of the full support from my people, even though elections are postponed a hundred times. I believe I will be victorious.”
The voting process was halted when the presiding officer, Joshua Nyange, was forcibly taken away by unknown individuals on a motorcycle to an undisclosed location.
This led to the postponement of the election as tensions remained high in the area.
As of the time of reporting, police had been heavily deployed to the scene to restore order and prevent further violence.
Supporters from both sides were demanding the opportunity to exercise their right to vote, while the situation remained volatile.
The incident has raised concerns over the rising tensions in the election process and the potential for further clashes in upcoming elections.
The police have vowed to continue monitoring the situation and ensure the safety of all citizens.
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