PFF Threatens to Mobilise Opposition Boycott Over Kawempe North Violence

Security agents have been reigning terror on opposition supporters in the campaigns but the state denies knowledge of the hooded armed personnel in JAT uniforms

The People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) has warned that it may mobilise the opposition to reject the upcoming Kawempe North by-election if attacks by the State agents against opposition supporters continue.

PFF President Erias Lukwago condemned the escalating violence in the constituency, accusing security agencies led by the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JAT) of failing to act.

“If the JAT gunmen continue their attacks on innocent citizens in Kawempe, we will have no choice but to call for a boycott of the election,” Lukwago said.

Amidst the mounting concerns, the State has disowned the impunity and the men in uniform that reigned it, although the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, on Wednesday said “they were going a great job”.

With the by-election just days away, opposition parties are still negotiating to field a single candidate against their rivals.

Lukwago, also the Kampala Lord Mayor, confirmed that discussions are ongoing and that an agreement is expected soon.

“We are still hopeful that we will find common ground and present one strong candidate for the people of Kawempe North,” he said.

PFF president Erias Lukwago also urged Ugandans to put more pressure on the government to free Dr Kizza Besigye

Beyond electoral concerns, the PFF also raised alarm over the delayed allocation of a judge to hear the bail applications of opposition figures Dr Kizza Besigye and Hajj Obeid Lutale.

Lukwago criticised the delay as political interference, warning that justice should not be used as a weapon. “This delay is a clear violation of justice,” he said.

“The government must stop playing politics with the lives of these individuals.”

The PFF further urged Ugandans to increase pressure on the government, warning that continued human rights violations could impact the 2026 elections.

Lukwago emphasized that the intimidation in Kawempe North is part of a broader pattern aimed at suppressing dissent.

“The government must act swiftly to ensure that the elections are free, fair, and safe for all participants,” he said.

“We will not stand by and let these violations continue.”

As tensions in Kawempe North mount, attention now turns to how both the government and opposition will handle the remaining days before the by-election.