Drama at Buguzi Polling Station as Presiding Officer Arrested with Pre-Ticked Ballots

Tension erupted at Buguzi Polling Station in Bunyangabu District after the arrest of a presiding officer attached to the Uganda Electoral Commission (@UgandaEC). The incident occurred during the ongoing local government elections and quickly drew the attention of voters, security personnel, and election observers at the polling station.

According to credible sources at the scene, the presiding officer was found in possession of ballot papers that were already pre-ticked in favour of the incumbent LCV Chairperson, Ategeka James Mugarama. The discovery raised serious concerns about the integrity of the voting process and sparked anger among voters who demanded immediate action from authorities.

Security officers were promptly alerted and moved in to arrest the presiding officer. The suspect was taken away for further investigations as election officials worked to calm the situation and restore order at the polling station. Voting was briefly disrupted as officials assessed the extent of the irregularities and ensured that the compromised ballot papers were secured.

The incident has renewed public debate about electoral transparency, accountability, and trust in the management of elections. Many residents expressed disappointment, saying such actions undermine democracy and deny citizens their right to freely choose their leaders.

As investigations continue, stakeholders are calling on the Electoral Commission to take firm action against any official involved in electoral malpractice. Voters and civil society groups have also urged authorities to strengthen supervision at polling stations to prevent similar incidents and protect the credibility of the electoral process.

The arrest at Buguzi Polling Station serves as a strong reminder that election malpractice is a serious offence and that those entrusted with safeguarding democracy must be held to the highest standards of honesty and integrity.