KISORO, UGANDA – The Kisoro District NGO Leaders Forum has called on presidential and parliamentary candidates to refrain from actions that violate voters’ rights and disrupt the area’s stability during the upcoming election campaigns.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The forum’s chairperson, Christopher Ruzaza, delivered the plea during a press briefing in Kisoro Municipality, emphasizing that the electoral period should be a time of robust debate and engagement, not intimidation and malpractice.
He elaborated on the detrimental effects of such tactics, noting that they not only discourage voters from active participation but also stifle community development.
“While campaigns often garner significant effort and support from voters, we are deeply concerned that some candidates resort to violations, intimidation, threats, and other misconduct that undermine voters’ rights,” Ruzaza stated.
He pointed out that campaign periods often see a diversion of attention from essential developmental activities, such as business and local projects, as the political atmosphere becomes tense.
Ruzaza appealed to all political aspirants to uphold the integrity of the electoral process by avoiding mistreating voters through bribery or intimidation and by conducting peaceful campaigns.
“The core of any campaign should be a clear demonstration of actionable plans and manifestos that can lead to meaningful and lasting development for the people of Kisoro,” he stressed.
Furthermore, Ruzaza urged the Electoral Commission and the Uganda Human Rights Commission to intensify their efforts in sensitizing communities about proper electoral conduct.
“A campaign built on fear or handouts is a foundation for poor leadership. We demand a campaign of ideas, a competition of development plans, not an auction of our people’s dignity. We are watching, and the community is watching,” he stated.
The Forum’s statement was welcomed by local residents and community advocates, who see it as a vital step toward ensuring that the 2026 elections are free, fair, and focused on the issues that truly matter to the people.
About the Author
