The Electoral Commission (EC) has condemned the violent clashes that broke out during presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi’s campaign rally in Gulu on Saturday, calling the incident “unfortunate and uncalled for”.
In a statement issued on Sunday, chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama said the commission was awaiting investigations into the causes of the confrontation but stressed that the scenes were especially disappointing given that all campaign agents and police commanders had recently met to address security concerns and commit to peaceful conduct.
Clashes broke out in Gulu over the weekend as security forces blocked Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine from holding what police described as an unlawful mobilisation rally, sparking tense confrontations between his supporters and officers.
The standoff escalated into scuffles as crowds attempted to push through the security cordon, prompting police to fire teargas to disperse them. The incident is the latest in a series of confrontations between the state and the opposition politician, who has repeatedly accused authorities of frustrating his political activities.
According to the commission, Saturday’s violence contradicted its long-standing appeals for calm and respect for electoral laws during the campaign period.
“A duly nominated presidential candidate is free to traverse any part of Uganda to campaign, provided he or she is acting in line with the law and guidelines issued by the Electoral Commission,” the statement reads.
Byabakama urged candidates, supporters and security officials to resolve disagreements through dialogue rather than confrontation.
The commission has asked the police to investigate the circumstances that led to the clashes and ensure that anyone found responsible faces the law.
It also appealed to security agencies to exercise restraint and apply only proportionate and lawful measures while enforcing compliance with electoral rules.
The commission reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Ugandans participate in free, fair and credible elections.
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