Kampala, Uganda – What began as a hopeful day for youth participation in Uganda’s democracy quickly turned into frustration, confusion, and outrage at Kawempe Electoral Commission offices, as several National Unity Platform (NUP) candidates were allegedly denied nomination to contest in the Special Interest Group (SIG) elections.
The elections, which are meant to empower marginalized groups, including Youth, Older Persons, and Persons with Disabilities, took a chaotic turn when NUP youth aspirants were blocked from accessing the nomination grounds, sparking anger and calls of foul play from party leaders and supporters.
Among those turned away was Aisha Nalunkuma, a passionate NUP youth aspirant, who broke down in frustration after repeated failed attempts to submit her nomination documents.
“We have been coming here for days. Every time, they told us to return tomorrow. Now nominations are closing, and they’re saying nothing! What do they want us to do, give up?” Nalunkuma exclaimed tearfully to the gathered media.
According to Nalunkuma and other youth candidates, EC officials at the Kawempe Division office provided no clear explanation for the obstruction. Instead, they were allegedly met with empty reassurances and ultimately, silence.
David Lewis Rubongoya, NUP’s Secretary General, expressed outrage at what he described as the systematic disenfranchisement of opposition youth.
“The environment under which our Election Management Committee is forced to operate is unacceptable. Up to now, we have received no official reason for this blatant violation. What a bunch of criminals!” Rubongoya posted on X (formerly Twitter).
As tensions escalated, security was beefed up around the Kawempe EC office, adding to the intimidation and uncertainty surrounding the already fragile nomination process. The Electoral Commission has yet to release an official statement explaining why NUP youth aspirants were denied access or nomination.
This latest development follows ongoing concerns about transparency and fairness in Uganda’s electoral processes, particularly regarding Special Interest Group elections, which often receive less media attention despite their critical role in representing Uganda’s most vulnerable populations.
Political observers say this incident highlights a disturbing pattern in Uganda’s political landscape: the marginalization of opposition voices, especially those of young people.
“These elections are meant to uplift the youth. But if they can’t even be nominated, what hope do we have for inclusive governance?”
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