Religious leaders condemn Kawempe election violence

KAMPALA - The Thursday (March 13) Kawempe North by-election has sparked national outrage after violent clashes overshadowed the democratic process. 

Reports indicate that majority of the victims are journalists.

On Friday (March 14, 2025), the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) condemned the brutality witnessed during the election, calling for urgent action to protect democracy, human rights, and press freedom.

IRCU expressed deep concern over the levels of violence that tainted the election, particularly the excessive force used against journalists and ordinary citizens.

"We strongly condemn all acts of violence against any Ugandan. Electoral-related violence undermines good governance, weakens public trust in the electoral process, and violates fundamental human rights," said IRCU Secretary General Joshua Kitakule.

Brutality against journalists, citizens

One of the most alarming incidents during the by-election was the targeted violence against journalists covering the event.

According to reports, security personnel were caught on camera assaulting media professionals, raising serious concerns about press freedom in Uganda. The IRCU called these actions a direct attack on democracy.

"The media plays an essential role in ensuring transparency and accountability in electoral processes. Any attack on journalists is an attack on democracy and the people’s right to information," the statement read.

Additionally, voters and opposition supporters reported incidents of intimidation, harassment, and forceful dispersal by security forces. The heavy-handed approach by law enforcement led to a notably low voter turnout, with many citizens reportedly staying away from polling stations out of fear.

The IRCU also criticized what they termed as excessive military deployment in Kawempe North, questioning why a civil exercise was treated like a security operation. 

The use of military force in elections, the council warned, not only discourages voter participation but also adds an unnecessary financial burden on taxpayers.

"It is unacceptable that security personnel were deployed in such large numbers, yet their presence only resulted in violence. Elections should be about the people’s voice, not intimidation and fear," the statement added.

Call for action

In response to the chaotic election, the IRCU has made several urgent demands:
Government and Security Agencies—To uphold human rights, exercise restraint, and ensure the safety of all citizens during elections.

Electoral Commission—To guarantee free, fair, and transparent elections without external interference.

Media and Civil Society—To continue their role in promoting democracy and holding institutions accountable.

Citizens of Uganda—To reject electoral violence and vote based on values and leadership qualities rather than financial inducements.

The IRCU reaffirmed its commitment to peace, justice, and good governance, urging authorities to investigate the violence and hold those responsible accountable.

As the country reflects on the events in Kawempe North, the call for justice grows louder.

"Uganda must not allow its democracy to be hijacked by violence and fear. Every Ugandan deserves a free and fair electoral process," Kitakule said in the statement.