President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed a thorough investigation into allegations of vote rigging and election malpractice in the Kawempe North by-election. Concerns have been raised about ballot-stuffing, result tampering, and voter intimidation.
The President pointed out several issues, including:
– Ballot stuffing and result alterations
– Destruction of ballot boxes in areas like Kazo-Angola and Mbogo Mosque zone
– Campaigning at polling stations, which is against electoral laws
– Intimidation and violence against voters and election officials
Museveni noted that while security forces prevented major violence, they did not stop all election-related crimes. He stated that the Electoral Commission should have handled these issues more effectively.
Museveni also warned that those involved in electoral malpractice would be held accountable.
“Some people miscalculate. To think that you can commit such crimes when the NRM is in charge is the highest form of shallowness. We shall hold everybody responsible accountable,” he said.
He also urged those intimidating NRM supporters to apologize and respect the choices of voters.
The President emphasized biometric verification as a way to curb election fraud. He stated that only voters verified biometrically should be allowed to cast their ballots.
