Police summons NUP activist Kibira over inciting violence and hate speech allegations amid poll violence

KIREKA — The Criminal Investigation Directorate has summoned National Unity Platform strongman Christopher Kibira to assist in ongoing investigations regarding allegations of inciting violence, hate speech and unlawful assembly following the Jan. 15 polls.

A police invitation letter dated Jan. 12, 2026, issued by the Kira Division Police Station, requires Kibira to report to the CID office today, Jan. 19, at 10:30 a.m. The summons was issued under section 28(1) (a) and (b) of the Police Act Cap 324, which empowers the force to require the attendance of any person believed to have information or documents relevant to an investigation.

According to the document, the investigation is being led by Detective Benjamin Ochaya, an officer specializing in political and media cases. The letter specifies that Kibira’s presence is necessary to provide information relating to charges of inciting violence and promoting hate speech.

The summons comes as the country grapples with the aftermath of a highly contested election. Several NUP activists have reportedly been abducted before, during and after the Jan. 15 polls. Local reports and rights groups indicate that security forces have frequently used unmarked vans, commonly known as drones, to seize opposition supporters.

More than 12 people have been confirmed dead and dozens injured following widespread violence that erupted across central Uganda and Kampala. The latest fatalities occurred in Butambala District, where at least 10 people were killed. MP Muwanga Kivumbi, an incumbent legislator for the NUP, described the incident as a massacre, stating that security forces stormed his home and shot his campaign agents. Police spokesperson Lydia Tumushabe disputed this account, claiming security forces acted in self-defense against machete-wielding goons.

The United Nations Human Rights Office recently warned that the election was held in an environment of widespread repression and intimidation. Opposition leader Bobi Wine, whose real name is Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, has remained under heavy security surveillance, with his party claiming he was briefly taken to an undisclosed location by the military on Friday—a claim the army has denied.

Countless other activists aligned with Bobi Wine remain in custody or missing.