MUKONO, Uganda — Authorities have assured the public of tight security for a peaceful and well-organized electoral process as Ugandans head to the polls for local government elections Thursday.
Following a dismal voter turnout in the last round and isolated cases of violence elsewhere, leaders, candidates and security officials in Mukono District jointly called on residents to participate in large numbers and peacefully.
Mukono Resident District Commissioner Hajjat Fatumah Ndisaba Nabittaka issued a strong warning to individuals planning disruption, stating security agencies are prepared to deal with any chaos. She said both the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces have been deployed across all district sub-counties to maintain order.
Ndisaba urged the public to remain peaceful, follow guidelines and vote responsibly, warning that anyone causing confusion or violence faces immediate arrest. The heavy deployment, she said, aims to prevent a repeat of past disorder and ensure a credible process. She appealed for mutual respect so voters may choose leaders freely, without intimidation.
Ndisaba also urged residents to actively participate, noting local elections directly affect grassroots service delivery. These leaders appoint land committees, school management boards and other bodies influencing community development, she said.
“These leaders work closest to the people,” she explained. “They are responsible for roads, water projects, electricity extension, schools and enforcing community by-laws.” Failure to vote, she added, often results in poor leadership.
Meanwhile, Stephen Kyamaggwa, an independent candidate contesting for Chairperson of Mukono Central Division, said candidates have already done their part and are now counting on voters to make their choice. He urged voters to turn up in large numbers and elect leaders who will focus on key issues such as road maintenance, sanitation, and healthcare.
Kyamaggwa also appealed to security personnel to act professionally and avoid interfering with the electoral process. He assured his supporters that measures are in place to prevent electoral malpractice and ensure transparency during vote counting and the declaration of results.
Other contestants, including councillors Fred Kiyimba and Hassan Kyanda, echoed similar calls, urging security agencies to remain neutral and allow a free and fair election.
Religious leaders have also weighed in on the importance of the exercise. Bishop Dr Samuel Lwandasa said local governments are the closest institutions to the people and play a vital role in solving everyday community problems. He expressed concern over low voter turnout in previous elections, noting that many citizens fail to vote despite the direct impact local leaders have on their lives.
On the logistical side, voting materials arrived at the Mukono District Electoral Commission offices last night. The District Returning Officer, Emily Amongi, confirmed receipt of the materials and assured voters that all preparations are complete for a smooth voting exercise.
