Mbale
An independent youthful parliamentary candidate in Mbale City’s Industrial City Division has appealed for security assurances ahead of the 2026 general elections, citing concerns that “bad actors” may attempt to rig votes and disrupt the voting process.
The candidate, Anthony Wasukira, told the Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Balam Barugahara, that he was worried about possible interference on election day and requested protection from security agencies. “Sir, you are our minister for young people. I am requesting security on election day. Some bad actors are planning to rig my votes and cause chaos at polling stations. Kindly inform the CDF, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and the IGP to protect us—the focused and disciplined candidates—and ensure that the people’s voices and choices are protected,” Wasukira said during a phone call with the minister.
Wasukira, 26, is a former street hawker from Mutoto Upper Village in Mbale City whose story of struggle and resilience captured public attention on social media, boosting his grassroots support. He is contesting to represent the Industrial City Division in Parliament as an independent candidate.
Barugahara said he reassured the candidate that no votes would be suppressed and that the election would be conducted openly and fairly under the supervision of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).
“I assured the young candidate that nobody will suppress his votes and that the entire general election will be peaceful and transparent, in accordance with the guidelines of the Independent Electoral Commission,” Barugahara said.
The minister issued a stern warning to individuals planning to incite violence or manipulate the electoral process. “Those planning or funding chaos during the elections are hereby warned. The joint security forces have the capacity and commitment to maintain law and order. Any acts of muchezo or manyanga will not be tolerated. Seek votes peacefully or step aside,” he warned.
Barugahara also urged young Ugandans not to be misled by unscrupulous politicians, advising them to participate peacefully and safeguard the integrity of the vote.
“I advise all young Ugandans not to be misled by untrustworthy politicians. Participate peacefully and protect the integrity of the electoral process,” he added.
In the Industrial City Division race, Wasukira faces several contenders, including the incumbent, Karim Masaba (Independent), and John Wekesa Wambogo, the Mbale City NRM chairperson and ruling party flag bearer.
Other candidates in the race include Margaret Wokuri Mandanda (FDC), a gender advocate and policy analyst, and Uthman Mugoya, an independent candidate with a background in computer science and community mobilisation.
Torch Media Africa
