Kampala, Uganda – Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries have once again been marred by violent confrontations, with police confirming at least 16 arrests in connection with politically motivated clashes across Mubende, Isingiro, and Rubanda districts.
The Uganda Police Force stated it is actively investigating these outbreaks of violence, which have included gunfire, arson, physical assaults, and destruction of property.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 8, the police detailed incidents of physical assault, property destruction, and vandalism of election materials in the affected regions.
Violent Clashes in Mubende
The most severe incident reported occurred on Monday, July 7, in Mubende District. A bloody confrontation erupted when two rival groups supporting NRM parliamentary aspirants—Henry Muhumuza and incumbent MP David Kabanda—met at Kyapa Kyeturege trading center.
According to a police statement issued on Monday, the clash escalated into an exchange of gunfire, leaving Gumisiriza Roger injured. Other individuals were reportedly assaulted with sticks and bricks. The violence later shifted to Nabingola Sub County headquarters, where angry supporters torched two vehicles (registration numbers UBP 452K and UBP 788T) and a motorcycle (UFU 345X). Police from Mubende Central Police Station (CPS) responded, arrested three suspects, and transported the injured to Mubende Regional Hospital.
Arrests in Isingiro and Rubanda
A separate but similarly chaotic scene unfolded in Isingiro District on Friday, July 5. In Kyempisi cell, Kikagate Subcounty, unidentified individuals set ablaze two motorcycles and a vehicle in what is believed to be politically motivated violence linked to the ongoing primaries. Ten suspects have been arrested, while others are reportedly at large.
In Rubanda District, violence flared earlier on Wednesday, July 3. Stones were hurled at the convoy of Finance State Minister Henry Musasizi as he left a rally at Hakashanje Playground in Hamuhambo Town Council. Police reported that his vehicle was damaged in the attack, which followed earlier reports of the minister’s posters being torn down. Two suspects have been apprehended in connection with this incident.
Police Condemn Violence and Reassure Public
“These acts include physical assaults, property destruction, vandalism of election materials and other electoral offences,” police noted in their July 8 statement. “We condemn all forms of violence and reassure the public that the perpetrators will be held accountable.” Police acknowledged that some suspects have fled and abandoned their homes to evade arrest.
While the NRM primaries are intended to promote internal democracy, they have in recent years been marred by violent rivalries, often between entrenched incumbents and emerging challengers. The NRM’s internal contests often serve as de facto elections in areas where opposition presence is weak, significantly heightening tensions and stakes for aspirants.
In response to the unrest, a security meeting was convened on Monday, July 7, involving all parties and NRM electoral officials to discuss measures to ensure peaceful campaigns and voting. The Uganda Police Force reiterated its commitment to ensuring law and order throughout the electoral process.
