As Uganda approaches its upcoming elections, signs of pre-election tension are emerging across several communities. Reports of scattered clashes, fear among citizens, and rising political pressure remind us of the unrest witnessed in previous electoral seasons. If not addressed with restraint and responsibility, these moments can escalate into broader conflict.
Elections should be a celebration of the people’s will, a peaceful process that strengthens unity, not division. When violence takes center stage, trust in institutions crumbles, and a nation’s democratic growth is threatened. Stability is only possible when citizens feel safe to vote, speak, and participate freely.
Uganda’s youth, who form the majority of the population, hold immense influence in shaping the country’s future. Yet they remain highly vulnerable to misinformation, political manipulation, and confrontations with security forces. Protecting their safety and voices is crucial for long-term peace.
Security agencies must exercise professionalism and avoid unnecessary force. Political actors must prioritize dialogue over hostility. Communities must resist provocation, and media platforms must safeguard truth over sensationalism. No political contest is worth the destruction of lives or the tearing apart of families.Peace is not a passive choice; it is the strongest foundation of democracy. Without it, elections cannot be free, fair, or meaningful.
🗣️ Voices for Peace
➡️ The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has publicly urged security agencies to uphold human rights and stay strictly within the law, especially ahead of the 2026 elections. They emphasized that peaceful protests and political activity should not be met with violence or arbitrary arrests.
➡️ Legal and rights-based organizations have warned that using force or political intimidation undermines justice and erodes public trust. As one report noted, during recent protests and by-elections, alleged cases of torture, arbitrary detentions, and suppression of dissent have resurfaced.
➡️ On a pan-African level, leaders and regional bodies gathered at the Democracy Union of Africa (DUA) in 2025 condemned the detention of opposition leaders and the targeting of dissent across Uganda, Tanzania, and beyond, reminding all governments that democracy and civil liberties must be respected.
These statements aren’t just political posturing; they represent a commitment to dignity, human life, and democratic values. When states respond to political unrest with force, the damage goes beyond bruises or broken bones:
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It breaks trust between communities and institutions.
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It silences the critical voices of journalists, activists, and youth, denying people the right to truth and representation.
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It jeopardizes the integrity of elections. A vote cast under fear or coercion is not a true expression of will.
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It sows long term instability. Violence rarely ends with one election cycle: its scars last much longer.
Democracy should never be a battle; it must be a peaceful contest of ideas, values, and shared visions.
United for Peace Foundation's call for peace
We urge every stakeholder, citizens, security agencies, political actors, and media houses, to choose humanity first.
✅ Let opposition parties’ campaign without fear.
✅ Let security forces act with restraint and professionalism.
✅ Let victims of abuse see justice.
✅ Let the voices of citizens be heard.
And at the heart of it all let’s remember: Respect for human rights is not optional. It is the foundation for any meaningful democracy, lasting peace, and a future where African youth can dream, work, and live with dignity.
Democracy thrives where peace is protected. Every citizen deserves the right to participate without fear.
Youth are the backbone of Africa’s stability. Their safety, empowerment, and inclusion must always be prioritized.
Dialogue is stronger than violence. True leadership listens, understands, and unites.
Security forces must uphold the law. Professional, lawful policing builds public trust and saves lives.
A peaceful election benefits everyone. Nations grow when political competition respects human dignity.
Our foundation continues to champion peaceful expression, civic education, and responsible leadership across the continent. At United for Peace Foundation, we urge all Ugandan leaders, citizens, youth, and institutions to prioritize peace above all else. Let political differences be expressed without violence. Let security agencies demonstrate professionalism. Let communities stand together, not apart.
Uganda deserves an election defined by dignity, truth, and unity, not fear. The future belongs to those who protect it.
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