The Electoral Commission (EC) has issued a stern warning against any form of electoral violence during the Hoima district LC V Chairperson by-election. The by-election is being held following the death of the former LCV Chairperson, Kadir Kirungi, in a motor accident earlier this year.
During a pre-polling stakeholders meeting held at Dwoli Primary School Wednesday evening, the Electoral Commission Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama emphasized that any instances of electoral violence during or after the elections would not be tolerated. He called on candidates to ensure that both their agents and voters conduct themselves peacefully.
Byabakama noted that the commission is fully prepared to deliver a free, fair, and credible election. Stephen Tashobya, the electoral commissioner overseeing Bunyoro, called on security forces, candidates, and voters to maintain peaceful conduct during and after the elections. He warned that anyone found violating electoral laws would face consequences.
Merab Kasanda, the Hoima district Returning Officer, reported that the campaigns had been peaceful, with all candidates adhering to electoral guidelines. Vincent Mwesigye, the Albertine regional police Commander, assured the public that they are fully prepared to maintain peace during and after the elections. He mentioned the deployment of both police and Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) soldiers.
According to data from the Electoral Commission, there are 173 polling stations in Hoima, with a total of 94,824 registered voters, including 48,532 females and 46,292 males. The election features five candidates: Uthman Mubarak Kadir Mugisa of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Patrick Musinguzi of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Moses Aguuda of the National Unity Platform (NUP), Vincent Muhumuza Savana as an independent candidate, and Lenox Mugume, also running as an independent.
