By BM
In a stunning move that has left political enthusiasts reeling, the Electoral Commission (EC) has drawn a hard line as aspirants heading for nominations are now officially banned from moving with supporters!
The latest directive, which takes effect today, comes as the Commission launches the nomination exercise for Municipality and City Division Chairpersons as well as Councillors across the country.
The exercise, running from Monday to Wednesday, will take place at district headquarters, while in Kampala, nominations are happening at five major division headquarters: Rubaga, Kawempe (Bwaise), Makindye, Nakawa, and Kampala Central.
In a no-holds-barred announcement, EC Spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi issued a stern warning: aspirants are only permitted to move with three individuals, two Seconders and an official agent or campaign manager.
“This is not a procession. No crowds, no supporters, no campaign caravans. Anyone mobilizing crowds will face consequences,” Mucunguzi said, his tone leaving no room for misinterpretation.
According to the Commission, this directive is part of a broader effort to ensure sanity, security, and strict adherence to the electoral calendar.
The move comes just days after the successful but tightly monitored nomination exercises for District Chairpersons and the Kampala Lord Mayor, which also saw tight restrictions on gatherings and political showboating.
Flashback: Tension During District Chairperson & Lord Mayor Nominations
Last week’s nomination exercise for District Chairpersons and the Lord Mayor of Kampala saw similar restrictions, but not without controversy. Several aspirants were turned away for incomplete documentation, while some were warned for attempting to draw crowds around nomination centers.
Despite the tight measures, high-profile candidates showed up in style, minus the fanfare.
Even Kampala’s political bigwigs arrived under heavy observation, flanked only by their Seconders and agents.
“If we had allowed crowds, the situation would have been unmanageable,” an EC official said anonymously. “We are trying to keep politics within the law.”
This week’s exercise continues in the same spirit.
Political parties have been reminded to ensure that their flag bearers come fully equipped, with verified National Identification Numbers (NINs), accurate names, and signed endorsement letters.
Mucunguzi emphasized that no flag bearer will be nominated without official party documentation, adding that political parties will be held responsible for incomplete submissions.
“Don’t wait for the last day,” he cautioned. “This is a three-day window. Wednesday is the deadline. We will not extend.”
Political Pulse: Mixed Reactions on the Ground
While some candidates have praised the EC’s firm stance as a move to restore order and fairness, others are crying foul.
“This is killing our momentum,” said one aspiring city councillor. “How do you build excitement without your supporters behind you?”
Security has also been beefed up at all nomination centers, with police vowing to arrest any groups attempting to defy the EC’s directive.
As the 2025 political race gains steam, the message is crystal clear: this election will be run by the book, no frills, no frenzy.
The battle lines are drawn. The rules are tough. And the stakes? Higher than ever.
Stay with us for wall-to-wall coverage as the drama unfolds on the political frontlines! (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
