LC1 Elections in Mityana Spark Disputes, Losers Reject Results

In several villages across Mityana District, tensions have erupted following the recently concluded Local Council I (LC1) elections, with many losing candidates refusing to accept the victories of their opponents.

The nationwide elections took place on July 28, 2026, but in some villages, candidates have alleged various irregularities including intimidation, voter bribery, and harassment of candidates during the voting process.

In Kayondo Village, located in Kiyogaanyi Parish, Kalangaalo Sub-county, the contest was between Paul Mpaddwa of the NRM party and Ssenkusu Moses of the NUP. Mpaddwa Byekwanso continues to dispute his opponent's victory, claiming that voter names were found on the Electoral Commission's lists irregularly.

Residents of Kayondo have alleged that they have been subjected to intimidation by security personnel, and they accuse the Electoral Commission of failing to conduct its work properly. Some community members claim that the election process was marred by violence and threats, making it difficult for voters to freely choose their preferred candidates.

In Busunju B Village, located within Busunju Town Council, the race was between Livingston Kayiira of the NUP and Ssemutoleko John of the NRM. Kayiira Livingston has rejected the victory of Ssemutoleko, claiming that the election involved intimidation and voter bribery.

Kayiira was seen wearing a white shirt and a watch on his wrist, mobilizing his supporters to challenge his opponent's victory. Voters in this village have also raised concerns about security personnel allegedly interfering with the voting process, with some claiming that they were harassed as they went to cast their ballots.

Amidst the disputes, the Electoral Commission has scheduled fresh elections for July 31, 2026, in areas where there were irregularities in the initial polls. This decision was made to address the complaints and ensure that the electoral process is conducted fairly.

Residents in various villages across Mityana remain divided over the election outcomes, with some refusing to accept the results, arguing that the process was not free and fair.

The LC1 elections were conducted in 71,214 villages across the country, with each village serving as a polling station. However, in several villages across Mityana, issues such as intimidation, voter bribery, and harassment of candidates were reported.

The Electoral Commission is currently investigating these allegations and has promised to conduct reruns in the affected areas to restore confidence in the electoral process. Voters in the disputed villages have been urged to remain calm as the Commission works to resolve the issues.