WESTERN UGANDA — With the 2026 general elections approaching, multiple districts in Western Uganda descended into turmoil on Thursday as incidents of violence, press suppression, and alleged electoral malpractice were reported across Isingiro, Lyantonde, and Rwampara.
In Isingiro District, the hotly contested race for the Bukanga North parliamentary seat turned violent. Supporters of incumbent MP Nathan Byanyima, a member of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), reportedly launched attacks against rival campaign teams. The constituency has become a flashpoint due to the stiff competition between Byanyima and independent challenger Tumuhimbise Julius, with tensions boiling over into physical confrontations.
Meanwhile, in Lyantonde District, violence broke out in the Ryeihura area, where journalists covering campaign activities were targeted. Several reporters were assaulted, and their equipment—including cameras and recording devices—was confiscated by unidentified groups. The incident has raised alarm over the safety of the press and the transparency of electoral reporting in the region.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the brutalization of journalists who are simply performing their duty to inform the public,” said the Uganda Journalists Association in a statement. “Such acts undermine democracy.”
In a separate but related development in Rwampara District, Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Harriet Nakamya was detained by police for several hours after allegedly attempting to publicly support independent candidate Charles Ngabirano. RDCs are mandated by law to remain politically neutral in their official capacities. Additionally, two individuals linked to Ngabirano’s campaign were arrested in Rwampara East over accusations of ballot stuffing, according to police reports.
The Electoral Commission has acknowledged the incidents but described them as “isolated” and assured the public that measures are in place to ensure a peaceful and credible election. However, opposition leaders and civil society observers argue that the events reflect a broader pattern of intimidation and electoral interference.
“What we are witnessing is not an anomaly—it is a systematic effort to destabilize opposition strongholds and manipulate outcomes,” said a spokesperson for the National Unity Platform (NUP). “The people’s will must not be sacrificed to violence and malpractice.”
As Uganda moves closer to the 2026 polls, these incidents highlight the volatile and often dangerous nature of the country’s electoral landscape. With reports of violence, attacks on journalists, and allegations of foul play mounting, concerns are growing over whether the coming elections will be conducted freely and fairly.
Reporting contributed from the field.
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