Baryomunsi attributes Post-Election Violence to “Criminal Gangs” hiding Behind Opposition actors

Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, has issued a stern warning against groups attempting to destabilize Uganda following the 2026 general elections, characterizing certain opposition activities as the work of “criminal gangs” hiding behind political activism.

In a comprehensive post-election statement released on January 27, 2026, Baryomunsi lauded the overall peaceful nature of the exercise while detailing what he described as a “detailed plan of misinformation and disinformation” aimed at creating anarchy.

Allegations Against Opposition Leadership

The Minister pointedly accused the leadership of the National Unity Platform (NUP) of indiscipline and provoking security forces by refusing to follow Electoral Commission guidelines. He specifically cited video evidence from Mukono Municipality, alleging that leaders were teaching supporters “tricks on how to overwhelm security forces”.

Baryomunsi further highlighted a call to “mubayisemu Egaali,” which he interpreted as a directive to destroy or harm those with different ideologies than NUP.

Recent Arrests and Security Measures

Addressing recent security operations, the Minister categorized arrested individuals into two groups:

Spontaneous Actors: Those driven by the “shock of losing the elections”.

Criminal Gangs: Organized groups allegedly mobilized by leaders to use the election period to launch civil unrest.

The government defended the temporary internet shutdown by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), stating it was a necessary measure after intelligence agencies discovered plans to use social media for “criminal incitement”. Baryomunsi emphasized that the government remained“resolute” in its commitment to preventing Uganda from collapsing like other nations where criminal gangs overran security.

Casualties and Legal Recourse

The Minister expressed regret over the loss of life in Butambala on January 15, 2026, blaming political actors for misleading supporters into “fatal criminal actions”. He urged those dissatisfied with the election results to seek redress through the courts rather than through violence, noting that judicial bodies are “ready to listen to their grievances”.

Museveni’s Legal Defense

The statement follows the filing of a formal response by President Yoweri Tibuhaburwa Kaguta Museveni to a presidential election petition (No. 1 of 2026) lodged by Robert Kasibante. In his affidavit dated January 25, 2026, the President denied all allegations of illegalities, bribery, or violence.

The President’s legal team, K&K Advocates, asserted that Museveni was validly elected with 7,946,772 votes (71.65% of the cast votes) in an election that complied with the Constitution and the Presidential Elections Act.

Minister Baryomunsi concluded by calling on all Ugandans to resume their work, stating that with the exception of a few lower local government contests, the elections are over and the country must move forward.