Kyazanga Town Council, Lwengo District – Yesterday’s youth council elections in Kyazanga descended into chaos as security forces fired live bullets and tear gas to disperse frustrated young voters who accused authorities of blocking their preferred candidates.
Clashes erupted after several youth candidates, allegedly aligned with the National Unity Platform (NUP), were arrested just before polling. One detained candidate, seen in viral footage removing handcuffs, claimed he was targeted to prevent his participation.
NUP supporters protested, accusing the electoral commission of favouring NRM candidates.
"They arrested our leaders to rig the election. How can we vote when our voice is silenced?" – NUP supporter
Peace Kyogabire Mugabi, Lwengo District Electoral Commission head, faced backlash: Protesters doused her with water, demanding the release of arrested candidates. She defended the process, stating: "We follow the law. Those detained violated campaign guidelines."
While NRM candidates led in early tallies, party members reported internal disagreements over candidate selection, revealing deeper divisions.
