Voter Register Update Halted in Kyazanga Amidst Electoral Chaos

Tensions ran high in Kyazanga Town Council on Friday as the crucial voter register update exercise, a precursor to village and parish chairperson elections, was derailed by chaos and violence. The disturbance occurred in Kanaakulya Zone, where residents gathered to verify and update their voter particulars.

Eyewitnesses reported that the situation devolved into a confrontation between supporters of incumbent Zone Chairperson David Ssebuguzi and challenger Hakim Muwonge. Accusations flew between the rival camps, with each side alleging the other had orchestrated violence to disenfranchise voters and control access to the registration points.

Reports suggest that unidentified individuals blocked access to the area, selectively permitting certain individuals while denying others. One resident recounted that some people were assaulted, with one individual reportedly collapsing after being attacked. This outbreak of disorder forced the temporary suspension of the exercise.

Police, led by the Officer in Charge, Kawuuma Pamera, arrived at the scene to restore order and halted the proceedings. Residents voiced accusations against incumbent chairperson David Ssebuguzi, alleging he employed individuals from outside the area to cause disruption. However, these claims remain unverified.

Hakim Muwonge, challenging Ssebuguzi, urged the Electoral Commission not to cancel the elections due to the manufactured chaos. He stated that some individuals were attempting to create confusion to prevent the elections from proceeding. Muwonge emphasized that the violence appeared aimed at intimidating voters.

Efforts to reach David Ssebuguzi for comment were unsuccessful. Kyazanga Town Council in Lwengo District has a history of political disagreements during election periods. Police have appealed for calm and urged all parties to ensure peaceful participation for every eligible voter. The Electoral Commission is proceeding with preparations for the village and parish-level elections nationwide.

Source: Nile Post