Over 60 Arrested as Tensions Escalate in NRM Primaries

The Uganda Police Force has raised concerns over rising tensions and incidents of violence during the National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries for Members of Parliament and LC5 Chairpersons, which are set to conclude today.

Addressing a weekly press briefing at the Police Headquarters in Naguru, Police Spokesperson CP Kituuma Rusoke revealed that some political actors have resorted to hiring goons, vandalizing vehicles, ambushing rival supporters, and using radio platforms to defame opponents with malicious claims and sectarian innuendos.

CP Kituuma also cited cases where public address systems were deployed to disrupt rival campaign rallies, contributing to an increasingly hostile political environment. He disclosed that police had made over 60 arrests related to such acts by the end of last week.

To manage the situation, police have identified potential electoral hotspots and engaged extensively with political actors and other stakeholders. The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has made physical visits and conducted assessments in several districts, including Sembabule, Mbarara, Isingiro, Kabale, Rukiga, and Rukungiri, where he met with political actors, district security committees, and candidates participating in the NRM primaries.

District security committees are actively working to promote harmony and maintain law and order throughout the process.

“Our focus will be on maintaining order during the voting process,” CP Kituuma emphasised. “We will not allow crowds at tally centres, and firearms will be strictly prohibited in and around these venues. Candidates are allowed a specific number of agents at tally centres, and any attempt to bring in unauthorised persons or goons will be stopped. No campaigning will be allowed beyond today.”