NUP's Nalukoola Sues Attorney General for Abuse During Kawempe North Nomination Process

Erias Luyimbazi Nalukoola, the National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate for the Kawempe North by-election, has filed a case against the Attorney General after claiming “inhuman treatment” by security forces on his nomination day, February 26, 2025.

Nalukoola's complaint focuses on the alleged harsh treatment he and his supporters faced, including the use of force by security personnel to stop his procession. He is seeking compensation and a court ruling that security agencies’ use of hoods and masks to hide their identities is illegal.

The Kawempe North by-election, set for March 13, 2025, has been marred by violence and misconduct, particularly involving the mistreatment of NUP supporters. These events have raised serious concerns about the safety and fairness of the election process.

One of the incidents occurred on February 26, 2025, after Nalukoola's nomination. As he attempted to lead a procession to Mbogo Playgrounds for a rally, security forces, including the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JATT), intercepted the procession at Kirokole.

The confrontation quickly escalated, with security forces using live bullets and tear gas to disperse the crowd. The violent intervention left several people, including Nalukoola, injured. He was briefly detained at Kawempe Police Station but was later released without charge.

On March 6, 2025, a campaign event led by NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, was violently disrupted.

Security operatives, including JATT, again used tear gas, beat supporters, and arrested several individuals. Among the injured was journalist Miracle Ibra, who suffered facial injuries after being struck by security forces.

The violence sparked strong reactions from various political figures and organisations. Justice Simon Byabakama, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), reassured NUP officials that the Commission is committed to conducting a free and fair election.

He acknowledged concerns about the accuracy of the voter register and polling station locations, promising that these issues would be addressed to ensure transparency during the election.

As the March 13 election approaches, there are growing fears that the situation in Kawempe North may worsen. The repeated violence and allegations of misconduct have raised concerns about the legitimacy of the election and whether voters will feel safe enough to participate.

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