Uganda Law Society Condemns Violence Against Bobi's Gulu Campaign

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has condemned what it has described as a "violent crackdown" on the campaign of National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu alias Bobi Wine while campaigning in Gulu last week.

In a statement issued on Monday, ULS vice president, Anthony Asiimwe called the events a clear violation of constitutional rights and part of a growing pattern of targeted political violence.

His statement follows an incident in Gulu on December 6, where groups of unidentified men armed with sticks attacked National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters as Kyagulanyi arrived for a campaign event.

At least five people were reported injured, and campaign property including sound equipment and vehicles was vandalised.

In its statement, ULS said it was "gravely concerned and outraged" by the conduct of security agencies, warning that the brutalisation of civilians infringes on fundamental freedoms, including the right to assemble, campaign and engage in political activity.

"This attack is not an isolated incident," the society noted, recalling earlier episodes of violence during NUP campaigns in Kawempe two weeks ago, where several citizens were arrested and "beaten severely," and in Mbarara one month earlier, where supporters were "violently rounded up, battered and detained."

ULS stated that its pro bono advocates had so far secured bail for 20 affected individuals from past incidents and were continuing efforts to secure the release of others still in custody.

The organisation questioned why such disruptions appear to target only one presidential candidate, warning that "this double standard undermines both electoral laws and constitutional guarantees."

ULS called on security agencies to "immediately cease all forms of harassment, intimidation, and violence against campaigners," and urged the Electoral Commission to assert control over the electoral process by ensuring neutrality, fairness and equal campaign opportunities for all candidates.

"If Uganda is to have just and credible elections in 2026, this culture of brutality and impunity must cease immediately," Asiimwe stated.

The society said it will continue monitoring campaign environments and providing pro bono legal support to citizens whose rights are violated during the electoral period.

Read the original article on Nile Post.