Chaos and Protests Mar Mukono Municipality Youth Elections

NRM youth elections in Mukono Municipality were marred by violence, intimidation, and malpractice.

MUKONO – The NRM youth elections in Mukono Municipality descended into chaos yesterday, with allegations of violence, voter intimidation, and electoral malpractice, prompting some candidates to file formal complaints with the district electoral commission.  

The elections, meant to select youth leaders at the municipal level, were marred by violent incidents involving suspected NRM youth wings ("kifeesi") and security personnel. Police, under the command of ASP Juma Sabira, arrested several individuals accused of causing chaos.  

Sources claim the violence was instigated by supporters of Mukono NRM Chairperson Al Hajji Haruna Ssemakula, though this remains unverified. The electoral officer, Robert Sekirya, declared NRM candidates as winners amid the turmoil, further fueling discontent.  

 Candidates' Petition Electoral Commission  
Saava Marvin, a candidate for Mukono Central Division youth chairperson, submitted a petition to the district electoral commission alongside supporters. The group accused the electoral team of bias and demanded an investigation into:  
Physical assaults against candidates  
Voter intimidation by unauthorised persons  
 Irregular vote counting  

Marvin, who sustained injuries during the clashes, stated: "I was beaten, starved, and denied a fair chance to compete. This election was a sham."  

A tense two-hour meeting between complainants and officials, including Mukono Central Division Chairperson Robert Peter Kabanda, failed to resolve the disputes. Security barred journalists and non-essential persons from attending.  

 Winners Declared Amid Controversy  
Despite protests, Edrine Kavuma was declared the new NRM youth chairperson. Other aggrieved candidates vowed to escalate their complaints to higher NRM organs, insisting the process was compromised.