National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu says more than 400 party supporters are currently in police and prison custody since the presidential campaigns began in late September 2025.
Kyagulanyi alleges that many of those detained are facing politically motivated or “fabricated” charges, while others remain in police cells across the country without formal charges. He cited incidents in which 100 supporters were allegedly arrested in Mbarara on October 27, as well as 32 in Arua City and 10 in Lira, all during clashes between security personnel and his supporters.
Kyagulanyi also accused security agencies of escalating hostility towards his campaign and referenced recent confrontations in Kawempe, Mukono, and Buikwe, claiming that police actions in those districts demonstrated “clear double standards.” He recounted a Wednesday incident in Buikwe where police allegedly fired tear gas at a peaceful crowd, sparking running battles.
Kyagulanyi further denied allegations that NUP supporters were responsible for violence, saying police had “thrown tear gas canisters into a peaceful rally” in Kawempe. He criticised the force’s use of dogs, pepper spray, and heavy deployment, comparing some scenes to “tactics associated with apartheid-era policing.” He added that road blockades have repeatedly forced his campaign to use feeder routes, only for security teams to “launch tear gas into peaceful crowds.”
His remarks came a day after police announced that punitive action would be taken against any candidate holding unauthorised processions. Kyagulanyi, however, insists the enforcement is selective, arguing that other political groups continue to hold processions without interference.
Police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke said he would follow up and provide an official account of arrests from the NUP camp at a later time.
Meanwhile, Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama criticised messages urging voters to remain at polling stations after casting their ballots. He emphasised that the law does not recognise “vote protectors,” and that only accredited polling agents have an official role at polling stations.
In response, Kyagulanyi stated that the NUP is encouraging Ugandans to vote and then gather 200 meters from polling stations, which he argues falls within the provisions of Section 31(34) of the Presidential Elections Act. He added that the practice promotes transparency and should apply to supporters of all parties. “If the Electoral Commission chairperson has failed to interpret the law correctly, he should resign,” he said.
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