President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has ordered a comprehensive electoral and criminal investigation into reported irregularities during the recent Kawempe North by-election. In a statement directed at Ugandans, particularly the youth (Bazzukulu), the President condemned acts of electoral malpractice and vowed to hold all offenders accountable.
“The following allegations have surfaced: ballot stuffing, tampering with results, destroying ballot boxes in areas like Kazo-Angola and Mbogo Mosque zone, campaigning at polling stations, intimidation, and violence. It appears some individuals sought to manipulate the vote count,” President Museveni stated.
He expressed disappointment that such fraudulent activities could occur under the watch of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), which governs the country. “Some people are gravely mistaken if they think they can commit such crimes against the law and the people while the NRM is in power. This is sheer recklessness, and we will ensure everyone involved faces consequences,” he warned.
NRM Advocates for Electoral Integrity and Political Tolerance
The President also called for political tolerance, urging opposition supporters to cease intimidating NRM members. “Those who intimidate NRM supporters must stop and apologize. The rhetoric of ‘You imposed NRM on us’ must end. Respect the choices of Ugandans,” he emphasized.
Museveni linked Uganda’s past instability to electoral fraud, noting that ballot-stuffing has been a recurring issue since 1961. “This is what destabilized Uganda. Leaders who cheat their way into power neglect the people’s needs because they believe they can remain in office without genuine support. This must stop,” he declared.
Commitment to Electoral Reforms
The President reiterated his support for biometric voter verification as a critical measure to ensure transparent elections. “Only bio-metrically verified individuals will vote. I urge all Ugandans who value peace to support this initiative. It must be one person, one vote. We’ve already arrested someone with 18 ballot papers,” he revealed.
Museveni also cautioned NRM members against engaging in malpractice in response to opposition misconduct. “NRM members must not resort to cheating simply because the opposition does so. Our mission is to protect the democratic rights of Ugandans, not to undermine them. That is why the NRM took up arms in the past,” he asserted.
Addressing Security Concerns and Allegations of Abuse
The President acknowledged concerns about the heavy deployment of security forces and reports of mistreatment of journalists during the by-election. “We are reviewing these incidents. However, the fundamental question is: Why should the UPDF and JATT be needed for crowd control?” he questioned.
He blamed opposition groups for inciting public disorder, which necessitates military intervention. “Who orchestrated the Kabaka riots of September 2009? Who was behind the November 2020 riots, where lives were lost, NRM women were humiliated, and police officers were attacked? Where was the Army during these events?” he asked.
Museveni defended the army’s role in maintaining national stability, citing ongoing threats such as the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), Karamoja cattle rustlers, remnants of Joseph Kony’s forces in the Central African Republic, and Al-Shabaab militants in Somalia. “Our soldiers face real threats where they shoot to kill. That’s why Ugandans can enjoy peace, even dancing in nightclubs all night,” he said.
Identifying Culprits and Addressing NRM Shortcomings
President Museveni assured the public that the investigation would uncover those responsible for the election irregularities. “The probe will reveal who destroyed ballot boxes in Kazo-Angola, Mbogo center, and other areas. Was it due to the overwhelming support for NRM in those regions, driven by our anti-poverty programs?” he speculated.
He also admitted to organizational lapses within the NRM, particularly in voter engagement. “There were mistakes on our part, especially in coordinating efforts and connecting with the people. The Central Executive Committee (CEC) is addressing these issues. We held a meeting last Friday to rectify these errors,” he concluded.
