The Mukono election dispute escalated Thursday night when former NRM District Chairperson Andrew Ssenyonga Luzindana and his brother Lauben Ssenyonga suffered injuries during a chaotic protest at Mukono Central Police Station. The two brothers, who were joined by over 100 supporters, demanded the release of the Goma Division Electoral Commissioner. Police had arrested the commissioner over alleged involvement in vote fraud.
Police Use Force to Disperse Protest
As soon as the group arrived at the station, riot officers confronted them and moved to disperse the crowd. The confrontation turned violent within minutes. Witnesses said police struck both Ssenyonga brothers, leaving them badly injured. Medics took them to CPR Hospital before transferring them to Nsambya for further care.
Journalists covering the scene were not spared. Some pleaded with officers to stop. Others, standing a short distance from the clash, were struck without warning. Their phones and cameras were smashed. Several reporters sustained bruises and cuts.
Among the injured were Salt TV’s Eric Yiga, Galaty TV’s David Mwesigwa, MBS’s David Tenywa Kalogoyi, and Shakur Lukwago, whose phone was destroyed during the chaos.
Journalists Speak Out as Fear Grows
After the incident, Mukono-based journalists expressed growing fear for their safety. With the 2026 general elections approaching, many cited the incident as proof that press freedoms are under threat.
Dr. Daisy Sarah Sonko Nabatanzi, who competed in the NRM primaries for Mukono Municipality, criticized the use of force. While she accepted her opponent’s victory, she claimed that the electoral commission received bribes to alter the results. She described the police response as excessive and unnecessary.
NRM District Chairperson Al-Hajji Haruna Ssemakula condemned both sides. He disapproved of the protesters’ confrontation with police. At the same time, he said officers went too far in their handling of journalists. He urged members of the party to address disputes through legal means. Ssemakula also promised to engage authorities to prevent similar clashes.
Officials Vow to Hold Offenders Accountable
Mukono Deputy RDC Hassana Kasibante also weighed in. She said the protesters had planned to seize weapons from the station and should have filed their grievances formally. Kasibante vowed to identify those who attacked reporters or sparked violence. She promised they would face legal consequences.
Despite the turmoil, NRM Returning Officer Stephen Nakabale later announced the official winners of the Mukono primaries. These included:
- Margaret Nakavubu – Woman MP Flag bearer
- Ronald Kibuule – Mukono North
- Robert Kafeero Ssekitoleko – Nakifuma
- Tadeo Kintu – Mukono South
To understand broader electoral dynamics and political events in the region, read about the Rwanda-DRC Peace Agreement 2025, an overview of the least peaceful economies in Africa, details on the NRM supporter shot in Kamuli, and updates on the Dokolo primaries violence plot. You can also see how Museveni praised Nampa Harriet and learn about election security measures in Sembabule.
