Uganda's Government Vows Peaceful 2026 Elections: A Pledge Towards a Violence-Free Voting Process

In a significant move towards ensuring a peaceful and violence-free electoral process, Uganda's State Minister for Internal Affairs, General David Muhoozi, has urged all citizens, civil society organizations, and key stakeholders to support the government's efforts for a stable election in 2026.

Speaking at the commemoration of the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, General Muhoozi, representing the Minister for Internal Affairs, Kahinda Otafiire, underscored the government's commitment to a non-violent election. "We are determined to have a peaceful election come 2026. Everyone must play their part. The public has rights, but also obligations to abide by the law. If we all fulfill our responsibilities, we can achieve a stable electoral process," he said.

Addressing concerns over reports of security personnel's alleged brutality, the Minister clarified that such actions are often the work of individuals acting independently rather than official government policy. "When we discuss torture, it's often linked to the government. However, many of these incidents are not organized or sanctioned—they are carried out by individuals, many of whom come from within our own communities," he added.

Dr. Kabumba Busingye, Director of the Human Rights and Peace Centre (HURIPEC), called for stringent penalties for perpetrators of torture and electoral violence as a deterrent to future violations. He pointed out that Uganda's history and current context make the concept of violence-free elections challenging, but necessary.

Lady Justice Mariam Wangadya, Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), reiterated UHRC's commitment to working with all stakeholders to ensure peaceful, rights-respecting elections. She emphasized the roles of media, security agencies, and the Electoral Commission in maintaining a non-violent electoral process.

Julius Mucunguzi, spokesperson of the Independent Electoral Commission, highlighted the importance of mutual respect and equality under the law for a peaceful 2026 electoral process. He stressed that the commission is engaging in dialogue to address election-related violence and that free, fair, and transparent elections are the responsibility of every Ugandan.

Mucunguzi also urged political leaders to promote peace and unity rather than division. Samuel Herbert Nsubuga, Chairperson of the Coalition Against Torture, called upon all stakeholders to join forces in promoting non-violent elections.

The dialogue, themed "A Torture and Violence-Free Election for All, by All," was held at the Golf Course Hotel in Kampala. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration and commitment from all parties involved in ensuring a peaceful, rights-respecting, and violence-free 2026 general elections in Uganda.