Entebbe — Tensions flared on Tuesday morning at Compressive Secondary School in Entebbe after several voters and journalists were denied access to a polling station during the ongoing NRM primaries.
Security operatives, including some UPDF officers seen wearing face masks, reportedly blocked entry to the venue, sparking outrage among voters and members of the media.
The situation quickly escalated, with voters accusing one of the candidates, Stephen Shaka Gashaija, of colluding with security personnel to prevent access to the station.
The allegations remain unverified, and Gashaija has not yet commented on the matter.
The contest in Entebbe is a three-way race between Stephen Shaka Gashaija, Najjemba Scholastica, and Namaara Jovia Tugume.
Eyewitnesses say some voters who attempted to question the restrictions were turned away without explanation, further fueling tensions at the scene.
“This is our right. We came to vote, but we are being blocked. Why now?” questioned one frustrated voter.
Efforts to reach local electoral officials and security authorities for comment were still ongoing by press time.
The NRM primaries in Entebbe, as in other parts of the country, have drawn intense interest, with large numbers of party supporters eager to participate in selecting their representatives ahead of the 2026 general elections.