“Even After Rigging, They Fear Defeat” Bobi Blasts Regime for Deploying Military at Polling Station

The Kawempe North by-election, held today, has been overshadowed by violence, voter intimidation, and a heavy security presence.
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National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Bobi Wine has strongly criticized the government’s handling of the election, accusing authorities of using force to manipulate the outcome.

“Faced with an imminent defeat despite all the rigging, the criminal regime has the audacity to deploy military mambas inside polling stations to scare away people from observing the counting of the votes,” Bobi Wine stated.

Heavy Security Deployment Creates Fear

From the early hours of the morning, security forces—including the police, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and anti-terrorism units—were heavily deployed across Kawempe North. Their presence created an atmosphere of fear, with reports of some voters being turned away from polling stations.

Tensions escalated further as security operatives targeted journalists covering the election. Several journalists were assaulted and arrested while reporting from different polling stations.

Among those attacked was NBS Television journalist Francis Isaano, who reportedly suffered a fractured bone after being beaten by masked security officers. Other journalists, including Abubaker Lubowa, Dennis Kabugo, and Raymond Tamale from Nation Media, are missing and are believed to have been detained by security forces.

Pattern of Violence Against Opposition

This isn’t the first instance of election-related violence in the area. On March 4, 2025, at least 24 NUP supporters—including Makindye East MP Derrick Nyeko and Kyadondo East MP Nkunyingi Muwadda—were arrested during confrontations with security forces. They were accused of illegally possessing military gear, including red overalls, NUP berets, and a shield. Several vehicles were also impounded.

Widespread Condemnation

The violence and intimidation in Kawempe have drawn strong criticism from various leaders. Masaka Diocesan Bishop Severus Jjumba condemned the brutality, questioning how the government can promote patriotism while allowing security forces to attack its own citizens.

Members of Parliament also voiced their concerns. Usuk County MP Bosco Okiror and Bugabula South MP Henry Kibalya denounced the actions of the security forces, demanding accountability. Mityana Woman MP Joyce Bagala urged the government to cover the medical expenses of injured journalists.

Fears of Election Rigging in 2026

The events in Kawempe North have heightened concerns about election fairness as Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections. With security forces openly intimidating voters and journalists, opposition leaders warn that democracy in Uganda is at serious risk.

The Kawempe North by-election, held today, has been overshadowed by violence, voter intimidation, and a heavy security presence.

National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Bobi Wine has strongly criticized the government’s handling of the election, accusing authorities of using force to manipulate the outcome.

“Faced with an imminent defeat despite all the rigging, the criminal regime has the audacity to deploy military mambas inside polling stations to scare away people from observing the counting of the votes,” Bobi Wine stated.

Heavy Security Deployment Creates Fear

From the early hours of the morning, security forces—including the police, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and anti-terrorism units—were heavily deployed across Kawempe North. Their presence created an atmosphere of fear, with reports of some voters being turned away from polling stations.

Tensions escalated further as security operatives targeted journalists covering the election. Several journalists were assaulted and arrested while reporting from different polling stations.

Among those attacked was NBS Television journalist Francis Isaano, who reportedly suffered a fractured bone after being beaten by masked security officers. Other journalists, including Abubaker Lubowa, Dennis Kabugo, and Raymond Tamale from Nation Media, are missing and are believed to have been detained by security forces.

Pattern of Violence Against Opposition

This isn’t the first instance of election-related violence in the area. On March 4, 2025, at least 24 NUP supporters—including Makindye East MP Derrick Nyeko and Kyadondo East MP Nkunyingi Muwadda—were arrested during confrontations with security forces. They were accused of illegally possessing military gear, including red overalls, NUP berets, and a shield. Several vehicles were also impounded.

Widespread Condemnation

The violence and intimidation in Kawempe have drawn strong criticism from various leaders. Masaka Diocesan Bishop Severus Jjumba condemned the brutality, questioning how the government can promote patriotism while allowing security forces to attack its own citizens.

Members of Parliament also voiced their concerns. Usuk County MP Bosco Okiror and Bugabula South MP Henry Kibalya denounced the actions of the security forces, demanding accountability. Mityana Woman MP Joyce Bagala urged the government to cover the medical expenses of injured journalists.

Fears of Election Rigging in 2026

The events in Kawempe North have heightened concerns about election fairness as Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections. With security forces openly intimidating voters and journalists, opposition leaders warn that democracy in Uganda is at serious risk.