Makerere University Halts Physical Guild Campaigns After Debate Violence

Makerere University’s Electoral Commission has suspended all in-person guild election campaigns, shifting to virtual formats after violence erupted during a candidates’ debate.

Commission chairperson Maureen Owomugisha issued a statement on March 28, warning students against defying the order, with penalties including disqualification under Article 71 of the Guild Constitution.

Physical campaigning, violence, hooliganism, and defacing university property are now prohibited, applicable both on and off campus. Aspirants must remove all posters and materials immediately or risk automatic exclusion from the race.

The chaos unfolded on March 27 at the 92nd Guild Presidential Debate in the main hall, where supporters of NUP-backed candidate Gracious Kadondi clashed with those of Hannah Karema shortly after a manifesto presentation. Security intervened, escorting candidates and officials away.

This incident hinders recent university efforts to revive open student political activities after prolonged restrictions on physical engagements.

Source: Daily Monitor