Politics 27 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Jinja Security Warns Against Voter Bribery Ahead of Village Elections
Security forces in Jinja are intensifying efforts to prevent electoral malpractice, including bribery and intimidation, as the district prepares for the upcoming Local Council I elections. Officials held meetings with candidates and village leaders to promote peaceful campaigns. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/security-warns-against-voter-bribery-as-jinja-gears-up-for-lc-i-elections-5510846
As the July 28 Local Council I (LC I) elections draw near, security officials in Jinja District are taking a firm stance against malpractices that could mar the electoral process. Deputy Resident City Commissioner, Hajji Hassan Kasibante, has issued stern warnings to candidates and incumbent leaders, emphasizing the importance of peaceful campaigning and fair play.
During recent meetings with National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearers from Kagoma Town Council and other areas, Kasibante highlighted that the LC I polls are critical as they form the foundation of political mobilization in the country. Security agencies have noted rising political tensions in certain localities and are engaging with local leaders proactively to de-escalate potential conflicts.
Kasibante stressed that intimidation, internal party disputes, and voter bribery will not be tolerated. He urged candidates to focus on their platforms and avoid unnecessary infighting. The RDC’s office plans to extend these engagements to leaders across the entire Jinja District and Jinja City to ensure a smooth electoral process.
The meetings also provided a platform for candidates to articulate their campaign messages and for residents to express their concerns. Incumbents seeking re-election, such as Andrew Kasima of Busiya II and Benard Kasibe of Mutai Kanyale Village, appealed for continued support, while advocating for responsible leadership. Voters were urged to scrutinize candidates’ suitability for the crucial grassroots positions.
Concerns over voter bribery were voiced by residents, who alleged that some candidates were already distributing small sums of money to influence votes. With the government allocating Shs56 billion for the nationwide polls, the Electoral Commission is set to compile village registers between July 6 and July 10. These village elections are foundational, serving to strengthen the ruling party’s grassroots structures and gauge public sentiment.