By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KASESE
A regional youth dialogue aimed at promoting meaningful and peaceful youth participation in the 2026 general elections is currently underway at Rwenzori International Hotel in Kasese District.
The event, organized by Multiparty Youth Forum (MYF) in partnership with the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD) Uganda, has drawn youth leaders and representatives from various political parties across the country. Participants are engaging in discussions on electoral integrity, political tolerance, and youth inclusion in democratic processes.
Organizers say the dialogue is part of ongoing efforts to empower young people to contribute constructively to Uganda’s, peaceful free and fair elections, and democratic transition, ahead of the 2026 polls.
Speaking at the dialogue, Rabson Mupango, the Kasese municipality deputy mayor challenged the young people to take up leadership roles, saying that the youth are not just leaders of tomorrow, but active change makers of today.
“They say that the youth are the leader of tomorrow, but I want to tell you that the youth are the active change makers of today,” said MupangoRabson
Mupango asked the participants in the dialogue to work together and serve their communities disregard of their religious, political affiliations. Mupango was representing the mayor, Chance Kahindo at the dialogue.
Additionally, the Justice Forum Council representative, Rev. Fr. Peter Mubunga Basaliza, who also serves as the Parish Priest of Kitswamba Catholic Parish, has called on young people to actively participate in the upcoming elections by voting for candidates of their choice.
“Do not lose your vote. Make sure that you vote for the person you want, someone who will serve according to your expectations,” Fr. Mubunga said.
Fr. Mubunga decried the increasing monetization of politics in Uganda, noting that it denies competent leaders the opportunity to serve their communities because they do not have enough money to bribe voters. He further criticized the Electoral Commission for inadequate civic education, which he said disenfranchises citizens and undermines free and fair elections.
Meanwhile, the Right Rev. Bishop Francis Aquirinus Kibira of Kasese Catholic Diocese, in a message delivered by Fr. Joseph Tumusiime, echoed similar sentiments, urging all stakeholders to prioritize peace and security before, during, and after the elections.
“Violence affects the entire system and ultimately the livelihoods of innocent people,” said Bishop Kibira. “Peace ensures that voters are allowed to exercise their constitutional and democratic rights without fear or intimidation.”
The Bishop also emphasized the importance of patriotism and national unity.
“It will be unfortunate if, after this conference, you or I go out and incite others to throw stones at opponents, only to end up with nothing more than a sachet of waragi. Put Uganda first, then your political party next, so that even in death, we can bury you honourably,” he said.
