Tension has risen in Namutumba District, particularly in Bukono constituency, as parliamentary campaigns enter the final days before voting on January 15.
Police and candidates have expressed concern over rising campaign violence, fights, intimidation, and growing hostility among rival camps.
The situation worsened following a violent campaign incident on Saturday at Namakoko Trading Center, Nangonde Sub-County in Bukono constituency.
Supporters of Bukono candidate Ms Persis Namuganza (State Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development), allegedly stormed a political rally organized by her rivals, Mr Maganda Emmanuel Katoko and Namutumba District Woman MP Ms Naigaga Mariam, leaving three people injured.
Namutumba District Police Commander (DPC), Mr Mwammad Rashid Byansi, said six people have been arrested in connection with the incident.
“We have arrested some people in connection with last weekend’s Namakoko incident. Investigations are ongoing, and they will face the law,” he said.
A security meeting was held to address the issue, and police have banned candidates from ferrying supporters in large convoys to meetings and rallies. The DPC warned candidates that this practice fuels violence and intimidation.
“We have learned that candidates ferry supporters on vehicles and carry big sticks, ready to fight and harm rival supporters,” he said.
Some candidates have expressed concerns about the use of Biometric Voter Verification Kit (BVVK) machines, fearing they could be programmed to favor certain contenders.
“We want the EC to provide a solution, especially when BVVK machines fail due to technical issues or operator errors,” said Mr Abdhalla Wante Jamali.
The police ban on ferrying supporters has been welcomed by some candidates, who say it will help reduce fighting.
“Candidates from other political parties like NUP, FDC, Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), and others are disciplined and know what to do,” said Mr Abdhalla Kasalawo, FDC candidate for Busiki constituency