This climate of fear not only affects political activists but has also extended to various individuals, including religious leaders.
Kassanda, Uganda – Residents and religious leaders in Kassanda District have raised serious concerns about the current political climate, citing a palpable sense of fear and deepening divisions within the community.
The district comprises three constituencies—Kassanda South, Kassanda North, and Bukuya—each represented by Members of Parliament from different political parties. While Kassanda South and North are represented by MPs from the National Unity Platform (NUP), Bukuya Constituency is represented by an MP from the National Resistance Movement (NRM). The district Woman MP is also from the NUP.
In a district with a population of approximately 89,000 people spread across 565 villages, residents report that every election cycle brings intense intimidation and suspicion among neighbours, driven by their political differences. The most vulnerable to this intimidation are often those who hold minority political views in their villages, who now live in constant fear of potential retaliation from the majority.
Nabanja Fiona, a resident of Katuugo Village, shared her experience. She was once active in politics and campaigned for a candidate, but faced severe intimidation. People would stare at her disapprovingly every day. On one occasion, while en route to the trading centre, she was intercepted by a group that questioned her aggressively; she was only rescued by the people she was travelling with.
This climate of fear not only affects political activists but has also extended to various individuals, including religious leaders.
Furthermore, youth report that during election periods, some of them lose their jobs in various offices simply because of their perceived political affiliations.
Mutumba Aman, a reader at the Anglican Church in Kalagi, noted that political conflicts create rifts and misunderstandings even among congregations. He has appealed to the community to maintain unity and reject division.
In response to this situation, the King's representatives (Abaami ba Ssabasajja Kabaka) in various villages, alongside some local politicians, have initiated efforts to bring people together. They are holding meetings with diverse groups and politicians to educate the public on the dangers of political divisions.
