news 30 July 2026 Nile Post
Buwenge Mourns Two Youths Killed in LC1 Election Violence
Residents of Buwenge Town Council in Jinja District have buried two young men, aged 19 and 26, who were fatally shot by a police officer during recent LC1 elections. The incident has sparked widespread grief, anger, and calls for justice and electoral reform. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/360369/grief-engulfs-buwenge-as-families-bury-two-men-killed-during-lc1-elections
The community of Buwenge Town Council in Jinja District is in mourning following the burial of Latib Ikaali, 26, and Fred Kalulu, 19, who were tragically killed by a police officer during the Local Council One (LC1) elections. The incident occurred in Kabi Zone, reigniting concerns about the conduct of security personnel during electoral processes in the area, which has a history of election-related violence.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the deceased were shot as they approached the polling station while voting was still underway. The officer allegedly fired shots that struck Kalulu, and when Ikaali stepped forward, he was also shot. Attempts to rush Ikaali to the hospital were unsuccessful as he succumbed to his injuries.
Community leaders and political figures have used the funeral to voice their discontent. Peterson Mubiru, chairperson of the Kamuli Outgrowers Association, decried the fatal use of live ammunition, questioning whether killing people upholds law and order. He urged a thorough investigation and a review of the current LC1 election methods.
Buwenge Town Council chairperson, Isma Ozanya, pointed to perceived poor leadership within the district’s security establishment as a cause for the recurring unrest. He called for the transfer of key security officials, alleging a failure to restore public confidence.
Jinja District Woman MP Peace Tibyaze expressed sorrow and advocated for a return to the secret ballot system, suggesting it could reduce tensions. She also appealed to the Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, to address incidents involving Resident District Commissioners during elections.
Minister Babalanda condemned the killings, promising that those implicated would be arrested and prosecuted. She announced government compensation of Shs10 million for each bereaved family, supplemented by Shs5 million per family from the Inspector General of Police. The minister emphasized that such fatalities during elections are unacceptable and directed security agencies to ensure justice is served.