Lyantonde LC1 Elections Marred by Threat Allegations and Voter Register Concerns

Tensions are high in Lyantonde District as several candidates vying for Local Council I (LC1) chairperson positions have voiced serious concerns regarding intimidation and discrepancies in voter registers. These candidates are appealing to security agencies, district leadership, and the Electoral Commission to step in before polling commences, fearing that the integrity of the elections is at stake.

Allegations suggest that organized groups of youths are being mobilized to disrupt the electoral process and intimidate voters in various areas. Some candidates have reported explicit plans to stage protests, instigate violence, and prevent eligible residents from casting their ballots.

Adding to the unease are issues surrounding the voter registers. Candidates claim that in several villages, the registers were either not displayed for public verification as required, or the display exercise was poorly managed. Some registers have reportedly gone missing during transit, while others contain duplicate entries or multiple versions, creating significant confusion about who is eligible to vote.

One candidate reported that supporters are facing threats of eviction and denial of community resources if they vote for him. Another contender is questioning the residency of an opponent, alleging that local authorities are not addressing the concerns.

Furthermore, some NRM candidates have complained about the delayed or incomplete release of campaign facilitation funds, with amounts significantly less than initially promised.

Kabula County MP Enos Asiimwe acknowledged the complaints and urged calm, promising to engage relevant authorities. However, the Lyantonde District Election Officer, Emon Tusiime, has dismissed these allegations as unfounded, attributing the complaints to individuals who failed to verify their details during the registration and display periods. Lyantonde District has 226 villages, with most candidates belonging to the ruling NRM, while the NUP is contesting in only a handful of villages.

Source: Nile Post