OPINION
Uganda is in the middle of the 2025 elections. Everywhere you go, you see campaign posters, loud music, and political rallies. People are excited. They want change. They want to vote. But behind the excitement, something dangerous is happening. Women and youth are being beaten, harassed, and attacked during this election period.
Across many districts, women who attend rallies are being pushed, insulted, and even physically beaten. Some are told they do not belong in politics. Others are attacked for wearing clothes with a certain candidate’s picture. This is not right. Every woman has the right to speak, vote, and support whoever she wants without fear.
Young people are also suffering. Many are being used by politicians to fight opponents. Others go to rallies just to listen, but end up injured when clashes break out. In some areas, youth are being arrested just for gathering in groups or shouting slogans. These are the same youth who are told to be the “leaders of tomorrow” yet today, they are being mistreated.
Beyond physical violence, we must also pay attention to the digital space. Women and youth who speak out online face cyberbullying, threats, and harassment. Social media is being used to spread fear and misinformation, silencing many who simply want to engage in political discourse. This digital violence is just as harmful and must be addressed.
This violence is not only physical it affects the minds and hearts of many. It makes people afraid to participate in the elections. Some women have already stopped going to rallies. Some young people say they will not vote at all. This is a big loss for our democracy.
Uganda’s Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and political participation for all citizens. The government has a duty to uphold these rights. As a signatory to international human rights treaties, Uganda must also meet global standards for democratic participation and protection of its people.
If we want peaceful elections, we must protect the rights of everyone especially women and youth. Political parties must speak out against violence by their supporters. Security officers must be fair and protect all Ugandans, no matter their political choice. The Electoral Commission must take action to stop violence at campaign events.
Those responsible for inciting or committing violence whether ordinary citizens, politicians, or security forces must be held accountable. We cannot build a peaceful democracy on a foundation of impunity. Investigations must be launched, and perpetrators brought to justice without delay.
In Isingiro District on July 4–5, 2025, during intense clashes between rival NRM supporters vying for the Isingiro South parliamentary seat, a Bajaj Boxer motorcycle (Reg. UFZ 889Q), another motorcycle, and a white Toyota Harrier (Reg. UBA 438X) were deliberately set ablaze amid the chaos. Several campaign vehicles were torched during the violence that erupted in Kyempisi Cell, Kikagate Sub‑county, prompting authorities to suspend all campaign activities across the district. Authorities arrested multiple suspects over the incidents, citing arson and malicious damage to property.These stories are not isolated. They are a cry for help.
What We Must Do Now
As citizens, we all have a role to play. If you witness violence or intimidation, do not stay silent. Speak up, report it, or support those who are affected. Silence only protects the aggressors. Let us be each other’s protectors during this fragile time.
Support women and youth in this election not just by voting for them, but by defending their right to participate. Encourage more women and young people to attend rallies, to speak out, and to stand for leadership. Show them that they are not alone.
We must also hold our leaders accountable. Ask candidates how they are ensuring peaceful campaigns. Demand that political parties publicly denounce violence, and that they take action when their supporters are involved in abuse.
Lastly, let us promote peace in our homes, our communities, and even online. Use your voice on social media to spread unity, not hate. Let us replace insults with ideas and threats with dialogue. Real democracy is built on respect, not fear.
We still have time to do better. The elections are not yet over. Let us all remember: violence will not bring good leaders. Respect and peace will. Peaceful participation is not a privilege it is our right. Let us guard it fiercely, for the future of our country depends on it.
By Ahirirwe Leticia,
The Writer is an Assistant Public Relations Officer at Wogem Uganda
Email: ahirirweleticia100@gmail.com
