The Inter- Religious Council of Uganda has called upon the Government, Electoral Commission of Uganda (EC) , Security Agencies, and Political Parties to work towards a free and fair election.
This involves the protection of human rights, ensuring transparent voting exercises, civil and clear campaigns so that citizens can freely exercise their constitutional voting rights.
In a press statement read today by the Board Chair Msgr. Charles Kasibante, the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda has raised concerns over arbitrary arrests and prolonged detention of opposition members and supporters without trial noting that many activists have been arrested on charges ranging from incitement and unlawful assembly to treason, with some reportedly held for extended periods without timely access to bail noting incidents such as the November 2024 detention under military jurisdiction of Dr. Kizza Besigye and his aide following their return from Kenya.
More emphasis was also put on harassment, intimidation and disruption of political campaigns of the opposition side were citizens have consistently reported political gatherings being dispersed by security personnel, restricted access to campaign venues, and the use of teargas during tense moments.
The IRCU has however condemned the militarization of the electoral process and excessive use of force by security agencies which has left many Ugandans concerned about the special forces command, masked security personnel, and plainclothes teams in unmarked vehicles who have over time made civilian elections feel more like military operations than civic exercises.
They say the Electoral Commission is missing in action to guide the electoral process and also expressed concerned over delays in accrediting organizations to carry out voter education noting that they are unhealthy for the country’s democratic processes.
They have also appealed to the Media to report all events without fear of arrest or assault during this campaigning season.
By Alex Magala
24th Nov 2025
END
