By BM
The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has issued a strong warning to the public and political actors against the dangerous practice of placing campaign posters on electricity infrastructure, describing it as both illegal and life-threatening.
The warning comes as the country enters a heightened political season, with increasing reports of individuals climbing electricity poles to hang posters and banners.
UEDCL Spokesperson Jonan Kiiza expressed serious concern over this trend, noting that individuals have been seen attaching placards to high-voltage distribution poles and even on three-phase transformers.
He explained that such actions put lives at immediate risk, as three-phase power lines are highly sensitive and pose a grave danger to any human contact.
Kiiza added that the risk is not limited to individuals alone, but also extends to communities, as interference with power lines often results in electricity outages, especially during storms when the placards can cause tripping of lines.
Kiiza urged political campaigners to find safer alternatives and refrain from turning electricity infrastructure into campaign platforms.
He warned that those caught tampering with the power network will be prosecuted under Sections 85 and 86 of the Electricity Amendment Act, which criminalize unauthorized access and interference with electrical installations.
In addition to the placard issue, UEDCL also raised alarm over a growing trend of illegal strikes by communities demanding electricity services.
Kiiza said the company has observed a disturbing increase in people resorting to protests and roadblocks to compel UEDCL to connect them to the national grid or replace faulty transformers.
He described this approach as unproductive and unsafe, stating that it places unnecessary strain on both the company and the public, and creates a precedent where people believe they must first strike in order to receive a service.
He encouraged the public to instead make use of official communication channels, including UEDCL’s toll-free lines, to report faults, request services, or follow up on delayed responses.
Kiiza explained that the company continues to face high volumes of service requests, sometimes receiving thousands of reports in a matter of minutes, particularly in central business districts and urban areas.
He acknowledged the frustrations some customers face due to delays but emphasized that processes such as transformer replacement require careful technical assessments and financial oversight, given that the infrastructure is publicly funded.
The company also expressed concern over the rise of unqualified individuals referred to as “Kamyufus” who illegally tamper with the electricity grid under the guise of helping communities restore power.
Kiiza cautioned the public against using such unauthorized individuals, stressing that doing so compromises safety and the integrity of the electricity system.
He concluded by calling for increased community cooperation, especially in ensuring safety during public gatherings such as funerals and parties.
UEDCL has recorded fatal incidents where tents set up under high-voltage lines accidentally came into contact with power cables.
He advised event organizers to always consult area offices for safety clearance to avoid preventable tragedies.
UEDCL reiterated its commitment to improving service delivery and urged the public to avoid illegal activity, report any tampering with power infrastructure, and engage with the company through official channels for all electricity-related concerns.
