By KT Reporter
The Catholic Bishop of Masaka Diocese, Severus Jjumba, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to organize credible elections to prevent violence and unrest arising from vote rigging.
Speaking at the Greater Masaka Regional Multi-Stakeholder Discussion for peaceful general elections, organized by the Human Rights Commission, Bishop Jjumba emphasized that Ugandans need assurance that their democratic right to elect leaders will be respected.
Referencing the country’s history of contested elections and political unrest, he noted that the EC has a duty to ensure that the January 2026 elections reflect the true will of the people.
Bishop Jjumba urged an honest dialogue involving political players and security agencies to avert election-related violence and tensions. He called on the government and security agencies to avoid high-handedness against political opponents and instead engage them in constructive discussions. He also advised candidates at all levels to refrain from aggression and character attacks, advocating for peaceful coexistence to strengthen multiparty democratic participation.
Richard Dick Lukyamuzi, Democratic Party (DP) National Executive Council representative for Greater Masaka, stressed that the EC must actively prevent election violence by enforcing discipline among political actors and ensuring fairness for opposition candidates.
Ahmed Musisi Nandduli, Masaka City Election Returning Officer, said such dialogues help the EC understand public perceptions, aiding internal reflection. He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to deliver free, fair, and credible elections.
Stakeholders also recommended organizing regional cross-generational dialogues to allow youth and elders to share aspirations and concerns ahead of the elections.
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