Uganda on High Alert Over Kenya Polls and South Sudan Trade Issues

Uganda has issued a directive to its security and immigration forces stationed in districts bordering Kenya to heighten surveillance. This measure is in response to claims that some Ugandan citizens have been crossing into Kenya to register as voters and potentially influence the 2027 general elections. The allegations have surfaced amid ongoing scrutiny of voter registration processes in Kenya.

First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga emphasized that Uganda respects Kenya’s sovereignty and does not intend to interfere with its electoral processes. She stated that the responsibility for voter eligibility and registration rests solely with Kenyan institutions. “The responsibility for determining voter eligibility, registering voters and safeguarding the integrity of Kenya’s election belongs to the government of Kenya and its Kenyan institutions,” Kadaga told journalists in Kampala.

Security agencies and local leaders in several border districts, including Bukwo, Moroto, Amudat, Namisindwa, Buikiri, Busia, Namayingo, and Tororo, have been instructed to closely monitor cross-border political activities. However, Ms. Kadaga cautioned against disrupting legitimate cross-border movement, acknowledging the deep-rooted family, cultural, and commercial ties between communities on both sides of the border. “We ask the security agencies to take emphasis on monitoring and prevention of unlawful cross-border political involvement, but act professionally, proportionately and in accordance with the law,” she added.

In parallel, Uganda is also addressing concerns from its traders operating in South Sudan. Ms. Kadaga reported that some Ugandan small businesses in South Sudan have recently encountered new restrictions and even closures. She urged the South Sudanese government to protect Ugandan businesses and ensure that any regulatory issues are handled through established legal and diplomatic channels, emphasizing the contribution of Ugandan traders to employment and economic integration.

Uganda seeks to balance its commitment to East African integration with the respect for the sovereignty of neighboring states, aiming to protect its citizens’ interests while fostering peaceful regional relations. Both Ugandan and South Sudanese authorities are encouraged to investigate complaints objectively and communicate responsibly to resolve these matters.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/2027-kenya-polls-south-sudan-trade-concerns-put-uganda-on-regional-alert-5623042