Fellow Ugandans,
As we approach the 2026 general elections, political parties are currently holding primary elections to select their candidates for various positions. While this is an important part of our democratic process, we are deeply concerned about the rising incidents of political violence witnessed during some of these primary processes so far.

In June we saw political chaos in the Democratic Party delegates conference in Mbarara, and some incidents of violence in village youth elections. On the other hand, the ongoing National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries have not been spared either. These incidents of violence cast a shadow on our democratic processes and risked the safety and unity of our citizens.

We have been saddened to read and watch in the news bulletins the electoral-related violence in Sembabule District, Lwemiyaga County, where a young man lost his life. In Isingiro South Constituency, Isingiro District, vehicles were burnt and people injured. In Mubende District, Kasambya County, supporters of rival candidates clashed, cars set ablaze, and another young man was shot and is now fighting for his life in hospital. Similar incidents have been reported in Rubanda, Adjumani, and Mayuge Districts. These acts of violence have led to loss if lives, destruction of property, injured many, and brought fear to our communities.

The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda condemns all forms of violence including electoral violence. Violence is wrong, wherever and to whoever it happens. Politics should not be a battle for survival —it must be peaceful, respectful, and guided by law.

On this note, we commend the candidates who have conducted themselves with civility and respect throughout the party primary campaigns. Your commitment to peace and mature politics is a shining example for others to follow. We encourage you to continue upholding these values. It is our hope that more candidates will embrace this approach and contribute to a more respectful and united electoral process.

CALL TO ACTION

1. We call upon all political parties to promote dialogue, peace and unity within their membership. Elections should not divide us. Let us put Uganda first and respect human life and property.

2. Candidates must rise above petty politics and guide their supporters towards peaceful behaviour; and must lead by example. They should speak out against violence and guide their supporters to act peacefully.

3. We urge party electoral officials/registrar to act with honesty and protect the integrity of their voters’ registers to ensure transparency, fairness and credibility in their elections.

4. We also call upon the electoral bodies of political parties to follow and enforce the rules of their elections and electoral processes.

5. For security agencies, especially the police, the task before you calls for professionalism, fairness and enforcement of the law as these primaries take place.

We wish all parties and their candidates, peaceful elections.

For God and My Country.

Bishop Joshua Lwere

National Overseer of Association of Pentecostals and Evangelicals in Uganda &
Co-Chairperson Council of Presidents
FOR AND ON BEHALF OF THE INTER-RELIGIOUS COUNCIL OF UGANDA