By Atukwatse Ritah,
KAMPALA,
Justice Simon Byabakama has called on Banyakigezi youths to play an active role in promoting peaceful and democratic electoral processes as the country heads toward the 2026–2031 general elections. He made the remarks while addressing the International Community of Banyakigezi (ICOB) at the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) headquarters, also known as the House of Statistics, on Saturday.
The discussion, held under the theme “The Role of Youths in Promoting Peaceful Electoral Processes in Uganda Ahead of 2026–2031,” attracted youth leaders, members of the Banyakigezi community, and students from different universities like Kampala International University, Makerere University, MUBS and many others.Justice Byabakama Simon emphasized that Uganda’s peace and stability depend on the contributions of its young citizens.
“What is your contribution to your community? What value are you adding as a young person?” he asked. “Uganda can only be what we strive and work for it to be. If we work for peace, we shall have peace; if we promote violence and corruption, that’s what we shall get.” Byabakama added.
He further encouraged the youth to uphold democracy, rule of law, and integrity during elections, saying, “You must engage in promoting democracy by registering as voters, supporting peaceful campaigns, and avoiding electoral violence.”
Justice Baba also cautioned against tribalism, corruption, and hate speech, urging young people to see themselves as part of the broader Ugandan identity beyond their cultural or regional roots. “Yes, you belong to the Banyakigezi family, but you are part of the bigger formula of citizens of this country,” he said.
Mrs. Grace Mutebire Mugabirwe, the chairperson of the ICOB Uganda Chapter, commended the youths for their active participation in national development and encouraged them to act responsibly during elections. She condemned the growing trend of hate speech and violent behavior against political candidates, calling for “mature and issue-based politics.”
“We must learn to disagree without resorting to violence. Elections should never divide us; they should unite us as citizens working toward the same goal,” Mrs. Mugabirwe said.
Justice Byabakama also expressed concern over the growing commercialization of politics, where money influences electoral outcomes. He noted that in some countries, citizens volunteer as polling officials as a patriotic duty, while in Uganda, money often determines political participation.
“The spirit of money has taken us to a different level. We need to restore integrity and a sense of national duty,” he remarked.
However, a youth participant who preferred to remain anonymous—criticized the current political environment, saying, “There is no real democracy in Uganda because those already in leadership are pouring money into voters, leaving poor but capable youths at a disadvantage.”
Justice Byabakama urged the young generation to rise above corruption and destruction, reminding them that “even an idiot can destroy, but it takes wisdom and patriotism to build.”
He concluded by calling on all citizens, especially the youth, to commit to peace, unity, and responsible citizenship ahead of the 2026 elections.
“Let your generation be the one that upholds democracy, not the one that buries it,” he said. “The process of ensuring free and fair elections starts now—with you and me.”
