The Mukono election dispute escalated into violence on Thursday night, injuring an NRM candidate, his brother, and several journalists. Former NRM District Chairperson Andrew Ssenyonga Luzindana and District Youth Councillor Lauben Ssenyonga sustained serious injuries during a confrontation outside Mukono Central Police Station. They had led over 100 supporters demanding the release of the detained Goma Division Electoral Commissioner.
Clashes Erupt During Mukono Election Dispute Protest
Riot police reacted swiftly as the group reached the station, using force to break up the gathering. Both Ssenyonga brothers were allegedly beaten during the clash. Medics rushed them to CPR Hospital before they were transferred to Nsambya Hospital for specialized treatment.
The chaos didn’t spare members of the press. Several journalists were caught in the confrontation while attempting to report on the protest. Some tried to negotiate with officers, but others were attacked without warning. Cameras and mobile equipment were smashed.
Among those injured were Eric Yiga of Salt TV, David Mwesigwa of Galaty TV, David Tenywa Kalogoyi of MBS, and Shakur Lukwago, whose phone was destroyed in the altercation.
Press Safety Concerns Grow Amid Mukono Election Dispute
The incident has triggered growing concern among journalists in Mukono. Many now fear for their safety as Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections. They view this attack as part of a disturbing trend of hostility against the media.
Dr. Daisy Sarah Sonko Nabatanzi, a former NRM primaries candidate in Mukono Municipality, condemned the violence. She claimed the electoral commission manipulated results in favor of her opponent through bribery. Although she accepted the final outcome, she denounced the police’s violent response to the protest.
NRM District Chairperson Al-Hajji Haruna Ssemakula condemned both the protesters’ actions and the excessive police response. He urged party members to resolve disputes legally and promised to engage with security agencies to avoid repeat incidents.
Authorities Respond to Mukono Election Dispute Violence
Mukono Deputy RDC Hassana Kasibante criticized the protest, accusing the group of plotting to seize police weapons. She insisted the matter should have been addressed through formal complaint channels. Kasibante assured the public that those who attacked journalists or incited violence would be held accountable.
Despite the unrest, NRM Returning Officer Stephen Nakabale announced the winners of the party primaries for Mukono district:
- Margaret Nakavubu – Woman MP Flag bearer
- Ronald Kibuule – Mukono North
- Robert Kafeero Ssekitoleko – Nakifuma
- Tadeo Kintu – Mukono South
These announcements moved forward even as the aftermath of the Mukono election dispute cast a shadow over the integrity of the process.
For broader context on peace and political stability in the region, consider reading about the Rwanda-DRC Peace Agreement 2025, an overview of the least peaceful economies in Africa, the tragic shooting of an NRM supporter in Kamuli, and the Dokolo NRM primaries violence plot. You can also explore Museveni’s praise for Nampa Harriet’s farming success and election security measures in Sembabule.
