Electoral Commission Sparks Fury After Defending Police Over Deadly Shooting And Killing of NUP Supporter in Iganga – Claims Police Had No Option

Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama has strongly condemned the violent scenes that erupted during Friday’s National Unity Platform (NUP) rally in Iganga, calling the death of one person both “very unfortunate” and entirely avoidable.

Responding to the fatal shooting, Justice Byabakama emphasized that the Commission has repeatedly appealed for calm, tolerance, and strict respect for the law throughout the 2026 campaign period.

“We don’t want bloodshed or loss of life or anything that distorts the whole purpose of people exercising their democratic choice,” he said, offering condolences to the relatives of the deceased.

The deadly incident has deepened national anxiety, especially as conflicting accounts emerge from NUP leader Bobi Wine and the Uganda Police Force, fueling debate over the rising tensions surrounding the election season.

Justice Byabakama noted that EC-supervised activities—such as reorganising polling stations, demarcations, and updating the voters’ register—had progressed without major disruptions.

Trouble, he said, intensified only after campaigns kicked off and “other actors went out to play their part.”

He stressed that the Commission had consistently urged all parties, particularly security agencies, to act with restraint.

“We have urged the security operatives to assess the situation on the ground and use the amount of force that is commensurate to the challenge on the ground,” he said.

“I don’t think there is any situation so grave that would warrant loss of life. Any problem can be solved without causing loss of life.”

According to Bobi Wine, security personnel opened fire with live bullets at crowds that were peacefully dispersing after the rally, killing Meshach Okello and leaving several others with life-threatening injuries.

He further claimed that officers removed bodies from the scene and demanded answers from the state, accusing the government of committing “crimes against humanity.”

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rosoke confirmed the death—naming the victim as Misaki Okello—but accused NUP supporters of orchestrating violent acts, including pelting stones that injured officers and damaged police vehicles.

He explained that officers dispersed the crowds after being attacked and cautioned that confronting armed forces “pose grave risks.”

Several individuals were detained in connection with the unrest.

Justice Byabakama urged candidates to respect campaign guidelines, avoid illegal processions, and adhere to the designated campaign schedule. He also delivered a firm reminder to security agencies regarding their constitutional duties.

“Your task is to maintain law and order and ensure that lives and property are preserved and protected. Can you assess the situation and apply the commensurate force required?” he said.

He ended with a pointed criticism of excessive force: “I don’t think that the solution is to kill. Bloodshed and the ugly scenes we are witnessing are not what we want to see.”