Mbarara City Suspends LC1 Elections in Five Cells Over Violence

Local Council One (LC1) elections in five cells across Mbarara City have been suspended following incidents of violence, chaos, and alleged interference by high-ranking politicians. Electoral authorities made the decision to halt the process, citing the impossibility of conducting a free, fair, and credible election under the prevailing security conditions.

Mbarara City Returning Officer Violet Atuhura confirmed the cancellation, emphasizing that the involvement of senior politicians at polling stations fueled tensions and undermined the integrity of the grassroots leadership exercise. "One of the challenges we have encountered is influence from politicians at different levels of the city in these LC1 elections. We cannot allow an exercise meant for grassroots leadership to be hijacked by violence and undue influence from higher-level politicians," Atuhura stated. She added that the safety of voters, electoral personnel, and the ballot's integrity were paramount.

“

One of the challenges we have encountered is influence from politicians at different levels of the city in these LC1 elections. We cannot allow an exercise meant for grassroots leadership to be hijacked by violence and undue influence from higher-level politicians.

The unrest was particularly severe in Karugangama Cell, where rival political groups clashed, leading security personnel to fire teargas and live bullets to disperse unruly crowds. Investigations into the violence and allegations of political interference have been launched, with authorities promising accountability. Despite the disruptions in these five cells, elections proceeded in other parts of the city, with 51 out of 186 LC1 chairperson positions filled unopposed. The canceled elections are expected to be rescheduled once security measures are enhanced and guidance is received from supervisors.

“

When they come down here, people become divided, and where there is division, there is chaos and violence. The safety of voters, electoral personnel, and the integrity of the ballot must take priority.