By Mulengera Reporters
A total of 79 individuals were arrested over two days during the presidential nomination exercise held on September 23 and 24, 2025, highlighting the continued challenge of maintaining public order during major political events in Uganda.
The arrests occurred at various locations in and around the Electoral Commission Offices in Lubowa and Kajjansi Town Council, where crowds gathered to support nominated candidates.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SSP Patrick Onyango, the suspects were apprehended in connection with offences ranging from petty theft to public disorder and defiance of security guidelines.
He noted that while the nomination process itself proceeded without any major disruptions, the high number of arrests pointed to the need for continued vigilance.
On the first day, 44 suspects were arrested during a rally in Kololo addressed by President Yoweri Museveni.
The majority of those detained were accused of phone snatching and pickpocketing among the crowds.
All suspects were taken to Jinja Road Police Station and are expected to face prosecution.
The second day saw another 35 individuals arrested in Kajjansi.
Among them was Hon. Allan Sewanyana, the Member of Parliament for Makindye West, who was reportedly detained for defying security guidelines.
He and several others were later released on police bond.
In addition, supporters of opposition figure Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi were arrested for reckless riding of motorcycles and allegedly assaulting civilians.
Police also impounded two vehicles and 40 motorcycles during the operation.
Despite these incidents, SSP Onyango said the overall security operation was successful, crediting the coordination between law enforcement and election officials for ensuring the nominations concluded peacefully.
He warned that any further violations during the upcoming campaign period would be dealt with firmly.
The two-day nomination exercise resulted in the official clearance of ten presidential candidates for the 2026 general elections.
The Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama described the event as a milestone in the country’s democratic process, encouraging all stakeholders to uphold peace and follow legal procedures throughout the campaign season.
Police have urged the public to avoid engaging in criminal acts under the cover of political activity, warning that law enforcement remains on high alert as the election season intensifies. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
