BY George Buatre

Politicians, Lawyers and Human rights activists have renewed calls for accountability over election-related violence, accusing security agencies of excessive force and selective application of the law.The concerns were raised in Kampala during the commemoration of International Human Rights Day, nearly three decades after the 1995 Constitution established the Uganda Human Rights Commission.

Stakeholders cited incidents of brutality during recent opposition campaign activities, which they say resulted in injuries, deaths and mass arrests.

They challenged both the Uganda Police Force and the Electoral Commission to explain what they described as a recurring pattern of violence during election periods.

The debate centered on whether security agencies are operating within the law while maintaining public order, and why similar incidents continue to occur during successive elections despite constitutional guarantees of political participation and assembly.

Rights groups warned that unchecked violence undermines democratic processes and public confidence in state institutions.

Faridah Lule, the Executive director of Ushahidi Uganda, questioned public trust in the police and called for professionalism beyond election periods.“When should we trust the police? When should we feel proud of the Uganda Police Force?” Lule asked.

Legal experts said the violence has become cyclical. Joseph Katerega, a legal officer with Justice Access Point, said similar concerns were raised during previous elections.“We have seen this since 2016 and 2021, and now the surge of violence and lack of transparency is ongoing,” Katerega said, adding that the situation is attracting international attention.

Lawyer George Musisi also disputed police claims that suspects arrested during campaigns were violent.“Out of over 400 people arrested, not even 20 have been charged with assault,” Musisi said.Police, however, defended their actions.

Dorothy Kyobutungi, a legal officer at the Police Directorate of Human Rights and Legal Services, acknowledged that some incidents were regrettable but insisted officers act within the law.“It is our mandate to maintain order, and while we do so, we work within the law,” Kyobutungi said, noting that some rights may be lawfully restricted. “

The right to assemble and associate is not absolute.”The Electoral Commission also condemned the violence. Spokesperson Julius Muchunguzi described the incidents as isolated and unacceptable.“

The Commission does not organise violence. Elections are conducted with the expectation that all actors will act peacefully,” Muchunguzi said.

Meanwhile, the Uganda Law Society has established a rapid-response pro bono legal team, which has so far secured bond for 37 people arrested during recent opposition campaigns, underscoring growing legal intervention amid concerns over election conduct.Tel: +256 784-527-642; WhatsApp: +256 774-909-840E-mail: buatregeorge5@gmail.com

Edited by Mike Rwothomio news editor at zoomer Africa your number one grassroot information hub.