Security forces arrested several National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters outside the Electoral Commission (EC) offices after they protested the disqualification of Bosco Lusagala from the Makindye Division Mayoral race.
The EC tribunal ruled that Lusagala, along with 10 other candidates, failed to meet the required supporter endorsements, nullifying their nominations.
This left Yasin Omar as the sole candidate who met all legal requirements. The Commission maintains that the decision was administrative and legal, not political, and fully guided by the electoral framework.
Despite this, Lusagala’s supporters marched to the EC offices carrying placards, posters, and campaign songs demanding justice. Police and later military police intervened, using teargas and force to disperse the crowd, arresting at least five protesters.
Bosco Lusagala condemned the EC ruling, claiming it frustrated Makindye residents and obstructed their legal right to challenge the decision. He said the Commission has delayed issuing a signed ruling, making it impossible for him to file a High Court petition.
“The Chai**rperson delaying on issuing out the ruling to us is a tactic to block our petition. We are challenging the ruling because the nomination form we submitted is completely different from what EC is showing, with alleged fake signatures. We have evidence and will fight for our choice,” Lusagala said.
Police confirmed the arrests, naming Nankya Miriam, Ggaba Parish Councillor Najjemba Clare, and three other unidentified individuals.
Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson Racheal Kawala said details would be released later.
Analysts say the Makindye case is raising questions about EC preparedness, party accountability, and adherence to electoral laws ahead of the 2026 elections. The Commission insists it acted lawfully and fulfilled its constitutional duty.
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