Chaos and Controversy Surround Youth Elections in Entebbe and Katabi

Chaos and controversy engulfed the youth elections in Entebbe and Katabi as the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) created panic in various polling stations. Despite heavy rainfall, a large turnout of youths was overshadowed by threats, violence, and suspicions of irregularities.

Many young voters opted to stay away from the election proceedings, citing concerns over intimidation and physical harm. In Katabi County, several polling stations faced a no-show from the presiding officers. Where voting did take place, it concluded as early as 11 a.m., leaving a significant number of voters feeling disenfranchised and dissatisfied.

One incident at the Abaita polling station saw a youth aspirant from the National Unity Platform (NUP), Jemba Jimmy, conducting his own vote counting and receiving an unofficial inauguration by his supporters. This unconventional ceremony led to jubilant celebrations among his followers.

Security forces were reportedly more numerous than voters in areas like Banga Nakiwogo, Bugonga, and Kigungu. Troubling reports emerged of students from Entebbe Comprehensive Secondary School being allowed to vote despite not being registered. NUP supporters also faced restrictions from accessing certain polling stations.

Community leaders, including LC1 Chairman Sebowa Abbey of Abaita Ababiri, have urged the Electoral Commission to intervene and rearrange the elections due to widespread misconduct and operational failures in many polling sites.

The situation escalated in Bendegere and Banga, where the UPDF allegedly took full control of the election process, barring known political affiliates from participating. Witnesses reported instances of armed personnel preventing youth from documenting the events and resorting to severe beatings against dissenters, leading to calls for accountability and transparency in what many consider a compromised democratic process.