By KT Reporter
Authorities have assured the public of tight security and a peaceful, well-organised electoral process as Ugandans head for another round of local government elections tomorrow.
In Mukono District, leaders, candidates, and security officials have jointly called on residents to turn up in large numbers and participate peacefully in the exercise, following a dismal voter turnout in the last round of local government elections and cases of violence in some parts of the country.
Mukono Resident District Commissioner Hajjat Fatumah Ndisaba Nabittaka has issued a strong warning to individuals planning to disrupt the voting process, saying security agencies are fully prepared to deal with any form of chaos. She said both the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces have been deployed across all sub-counties in the district to maintain law and order.
Ndisaba called on the public to remain peaceful, follow electoral guidelines, and participate responsibly in the process, warning that anyone found causing confusion or violence will be arrested immediately.
According to the RDC, the heavy security deployment is meant to prevent a repeat of the disorder witnessed in past elections and to ensure a peaceful, free, and credible voting process. She appealed to residents to respect one another and allow voters to freely choose leaders without intimidation or violence.
Hajjat Ndisaba also urged Ugandans, especially residents of Mukono, to actively take part in the local government elections, noting that these polls directly affect service delivery at the grassroots. She added that leaders play an important role in appointing land committees, school management committees, and other bodies that directly influence community development.
“These leaders work closest to the people, from villages and parishes to sub-counties and town councils. They are responsible for roads, water projects, electricity extension, schools, and enforcing community by-laws,” she explained, adding that failure to vote often results in poor leadership.
Meanwhile, Stephen Kyamaggwa, an independent candidate contesting for Chairperson of Mukono Central Division, said candidates have already done their part and are now counting on voters to make their choice. He urged voters to turn up in large numbers and elect leaders who will focus on key issues such as road maintenance, sanitation, and healthcare.
Kyamaggwa also appealed to security personnel to act professionally and avoid interfering with the electoral process. He assured his supporters that measures are in place to prevent electoral malpractice and ensure transparency during vote counting and the declaration of results.
Other contestants, including councillors Fred Kiyimba and Hassan Kyanda, echoed similar calls, urging security agencies to remain neutral and allow a free and fair election.
Religious leaders have also weighed in on the importance of the exercise. Bishop Dr Samuel Lwandasa said local governments are the closest institutions to the people and play a vital role in solving everyday community problems. He expressed concern over low voter turnout in previous elections, noting that many citizens fail to vote despite the direct impact local leaders have on their lives.
On the logistical side, voting materials arrived at the Mukono District Electoral Commission offices last night. The District Returning Officer, Emily Amongi, confirmed receipt of the materials and assured voters that all preparations are complete for a smooth voting exercise.
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