Statement on Electoral Violence in Uganda
Uganda Studies Group
2 December 2020
The Uganda Studies Group expresses their deep concern over the recent excessive use of state violence against protestors, which has resulted in the tragic and unnecessary death of at least forty-nine Ugandans. We deplore the disruption of the campaigns of opposition candidates, including Robert Kyagulanyi, who temporarily suspended his campaign after further attacks on him and his staff by police. In Uganda’s upcoming presidential election, President Museveni has the duty to facilitate a level ground for all legally nominated candidates to campaign and canvas for votes without fear of arrest and police violence. To enable free and fair elections citizens must have the right to protest and express their opposition peacefully. In this statement of solidarity with the victims of political violence, we call on President Museveni and the National Resistance Movement to allow all parties and Presidential candidates peacefully to participate in the democratic process. We also call on President Museveni to ensure that the police and security agencies including the military do not use armed violence and excessive force to stop lawful activities by any candidates or their campaign staff.