Tensions flared in Parliament as Leader of Opposition (LoP) Joel Ssenyonyi accused government officials of misusing state institutions to advance the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM)’s campaign activities.
Ssenyonyi expressed concern over reports that the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Adjumani District had directed schools to close and transport pupils to attend President Museveni’s campaign rally — a move he described as “deeply problematic and unfair to other presidential candidates.”
“It is unacceptable that children are being mobilized to attend political rallies during school hours. This not only disrupts learning but also creates an uneven political environment,” Ssenyonyi said.
The LoP also criticized the growing involvement of the Police and Army in partisan activities. He cited instances where security personnel were reportedly campaigning for NRM candidates, tearing down opposition posters, and openly discouraging voters from supporting alternative contenders.
His remarks, however, drew a sharp response from Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Norbert Mao, who accused Ssenyonyi of turning Parliament into a platform for political campaigning.
The exchange highlights rising tensions over the conduct of security forces and civil servants ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Opposition leaders continue to warn that the misuse of public institutions for partisan purposes threatens the integrity of Uganda’s electoral process.
