The Minister for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, has called on political parties and candidates to adhere strictly to electoral guidelines following the violence recorded in the National Unity Platform (NUP) rally in Kawempe.
Speaking during NBS Frontline on Thursday, Baryomunsi addressed claims of irregularities during political campaigns.
“Generally, it's has been peaceful across the country as candidates traverse campaigning for votes,” he said.
“Nonetheless, there are those who think they can make the headlines by deviating from the electoral rules,” he added, emphasizing the importance of orderly conduct during Uganda’s election season.
He further urged Ugandans to stop blaming the police unjustifiably after knowingly deviating from the expected.
Responding to reports that some political parties ferry supporters between locations, the minister clarified the position of the ruling party’s campaign.
“Yes, we ferry some supporters. Our candidate has one rally per district. He doesn’t go stopping at trading centers,” Baryomunsi said, highlighting adherence to the agreed-upon rally routes and schedules.
The remarks come in the wake of growing public debate over police conduct at political gatherings, particularly during the NUP presidential campaign event where crowd-control tactics—including the use of police dogs—drew criticism from opposition supporters and members of the public.
Kawempe is the latest in a string of campaign disruptions targeting NUP events.
In Mukono and Buikwe, also in the central region, the party reported increased violence alongside misunderstanding with security forces.
In Busoga, Bugisu, Lango, and Ankole, several NUP members were arrested during or after campaign activities following clashes with security operatives. The party claims that over 300 party supporters have been arrested nationwide in recent weeks.
Baryomunsi stressed that respecting electoral rules is essential not only for public order but also for ensuring the safety and accessibility of essential services, such as roads and hospitals, during campaign events.