Ugandan opposition leader and National Unity Platform (NUP) President, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has raised alarm over alleged electoral malpractices in the Kisoro Woman MP by-election. In a statement released on social media, Bobi Wine claimed that NUP agents reported widespread rigging tactics, including ballot stuffing and attempts to compromise polling officials in favor of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate.
According to Bobi Wine, one NUP agent discovered a stack of 160 pre-ticked ballots at a polling station, all marked for the NRM candidate. The agent reportedly refused to comply with attempts by election officials to allow unchecked ballot marking. Following complaints from citizens at the polling station, Justice Simon Byabakama, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, reportedly arrived and confiscated the pre-ticked ballots, though he did not explain their origin.
“Imagine what is happening at other polling stations if this is what was discovered here,” Bobi Wine said in his statement. He expressed frustration at what he termed “shameless and reckless actions” by the authorities, claiming that such incidents are intended to suppress the will of the people.
The allegations have intensified scrutiny of the by-election process in Kisoro, which has already seen controversy after reports of unsealed ballot boxes. NUP supporters argue that the government is using these tactics to maintain its grip on power, while calls for transparency and accountability are echoing across social media and among opposition members.
The incident underscores the persistent tensions between the Ugandan government and opposition parties, particularly the NUP, who have frequently accused the NRM-led regime of election manipulation. In his statement, Bobi Wine warned that these actions could provoke a strong reaction from the Ugandan people.
The Electoral Commission has yet to provide a detailed response to the allegations. With tallying of votes ongoing, both NUP and NRM supporters are closely watching the developments, as the outcome of this election could serve as a litmus test for Uganda’s electoral integrity.
As the situation unfolds, opposition leaders are calling for vigilance and urging Ugandans to stand firm against what they describe as a culture of impunity and electoral fraud.
