Women leaders from the Kigezi sub-region have raised concern over the growing use of money in politics ahead of the 2026 general elections, warning that the practice undermines democracy and discourages competent candidates.

The leaders voiced their concerns during a capacity-building dialogue on election-related violence held in Kabale Municipality.

The meeting focused on strengthening women's participation in leadership and tackling the factors that limit their involvement in governance.

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According to the participants, the influence of money was particularly evident in the recently concluded National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries and Central Executive Committee (CEC) elections, where vote-buying reportedly took centre stage.

Joseline Arinaitwe, fhairperson of the Women's Council in Rukiga District, said the monetization of politics has often resulted in the election of non-performing and self-centered leaders.

"Some candidates sell off their property just to raise money for campaigns, but after being elected, they disappear from the community and fail to deliver as expected," Arinaitwe said.

She urged government to enact stricter laws to curb the use of money in elections.

Jolly Masheija, Chairperson of the Women's Council in Rukungiri District, said the trend has particularly affected women in politics at the grassroots level.

"When I contested for the chairperson of the women's league at sub-county level, I spent about five million shillings on voters," Masheija revealed.

"It's becoming impossible for ordinary women to compete fairly."

In response, State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development Peace Mutuuzo acknowledged the concern, noting that government is aware of the problem and is working on measures to address it ahead of the next elections.

Observers warn that if the issue of money in politics is not regulated, it could seriously compromise the credibility of the 2026 general elections.