By Diana Kintu.
To ensure a peaceful and orderly environment for everyone, the Uganda Police Force is providing the following guidance to all citizens and aspiring candidates, especially those who wish to become leaders in the upcoming local government elections and the people who support them.
The process of officially becoming a candidate is called nomination. It will happen from Wednesday, September 3rd, to Friday, September 5th, 2025. During this time, the Electoral Commission will register those who want to run for positions like District Chairperson, Town Mayor, and Local Councillor.
The police spokesperson, ACP Rusoke Kituuma, clearly explained how everyone should behave. The main message is that the police need everyone’s cooperation to ensure this process is calm and orderly.
He gave specific instructions to those seeking nomination: “Please, go to the nomination centres in a respectful and peaceful way. Remember, our roads are shared by everyone. Do not come with crowds of supporters hanging on car rooftops or riding on boda bodas while screaming and causing alarm. He assured all aspirants that the police are there to help if any problems arise, but they must communicate with officers directly instead of causing a scene.
The police emphasised that every aspirant must follow the guidelines provided by the Electoral Commission. These rules are available on the EC’s website. This warning is because, in the past, some aspirants who were disqualified for having incorrect or fake documents encouraged their supporters to cause violence and disturbances. The police have stated that this kind of lawlessness will not be accepted. Anyone who tries to use gangs or cause unrest will be arrested and face legal consequences.
ACP Rusoke Kituuma’s final message was simple: if candidates cooperate with the police and follow the rules, any issue can be resolved peacefully. However, choosing violence will lead to arrest.
The police are calling on all candidates, their supporters, and the public to prioritise peace and safety. A peaceful nomination process is the foundation for a fair and credible election that benefits everyone.