Kampala, Uganda – Uganda Police Force has cautioned political aspirants and their supporters against the use of youth militias, known locally as Egaali, as the country prepares for the nomination of local government leaders early next month.
Police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke said strict compliance with Electoral Commission (EC) regulations, traffic laws, and public order would be enforced during the nomination period.
“All candidates must refrain from acts of hooliganism and desist from using rogue youths commonly known as egaali. Such groups threaten peace and undermine democratic processes,” Rusoke told journalists in Kampala.
Nominations Set for Early September
EC confirmed that nominations for District and City Chairpersons, Lord Mayor, and Councillors, including Special Interest Groups (SIGs), will take place between 3 and 5 September 2025.
This marks the first major step in the local government election roadmap leading up to the 2026 general polls. Nominations for municipal and division-level positions will follow in subsequent weeks.
Police warned that the use of unauthorized youth brigades would not be tolerated and pledged to prioritize public order and road safety throughout the electoral process.
Rusoke urged candidates to work closely with law enforcement to ensure peaceful nominations and campaigns.
Earlier this year, several political aspirants were disqualified from youth elections after allegedly deploying egaali groups to intimidate opponents. EC said such practices undermine voter confidence and risk fueling electoral violence.
Police statement reinforces a broader push for a violence-free electoral season as Uganda heads into a highly competitive 2026 election cycle.
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