The Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, has cautioned security agencies against obstructing presidential aspirants during consultations, stressing that the law only requires notification, not permission, for such activities.
He made the remarks as the United Nations African Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders (UNAFRI) hosted its inaugural Peace Ambassadors training workshop in Kampala.
The workshop brought together 80 youth leaders and students from universities, tertiary institutions, and local councils to equip them with skills to prevent electoral violence and promote peaceful participation in Uganda’s 2026 General Elections.
Byabakama reminded participants that consultations are a constitutional right for anyone intending to contest for the presidency.
“Consultation is the right of a person who wants to run for president. They are free. Don’t hinder them, don’t obstruct them. The law only requires notification so that police can ensure an environment that enables the aspirant to consult freely not to permit or deny it,” he said.
On campaigns, Byabakama revealed that the Commission has procured at least 15 vehicles to provide security to presidential candidates once they are duly nominated.
He clarified that the vehicles are strictly for security, not campaign activities.
He also said candidates will be required to harmonise their campaign schedules to avoid clashes and congestion in the same areas.
Byabakama warned that while presidential candidates enjoy certain privileges, they remain bound by traffic and public order laws.
“The mere fact that you are a presidential candidate does not make you untouchable. Traffic laws must prevail. Other Ugandans also have a right to go about their normal business,” he said.
Recalling incidents during the 2021 elections, he defended the Commission’s enforcement of Covid-19 regulations, noting that restrictions on rallies were not meant to obstruct candidates but to safeguard public health.
Byabakama urged both candidates and security agencies to act responsibly during campaigns to avoid violent confrontations, emphasizing that orderly elections are essential for Uganda’s stability.
