Party primaries: How ready is NRM in Namutumba?

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Violence flared in Busiki County as supporters of incumbent Member of Parliament Paul Akamba and rival Joel Waiswa Azalwa clashed at Bubutya Trading Centre in Bulange sub-county. At least eight people were reportedly injured, and seven suspects are now detained at Namutumba Central Police Station following the Sunday, July 13, 2025, chaos.

Weapons, including pangas and clubs, were recovered, according to East Busoga Police region spokesperson Michael Kafayo. According to the spokesperson, both camps have a history of violent confrontations.

Azalwa told journalists his convoy was ambushed: “The road was blocked with stones and armed men. They smashed my vehicles and beat my supporters. We were on our way to a rally in Bugobi town council.”

The Annual Police Crime Report 2024 revealed a 4.1% decline in reported criminal cases, from 228,074 incidents in 2023 to 218,715 in 2024.

Police issue guidelines

At a joint press briefing on Monday, July 14, Police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma confirmed tactical deployments in volatile areas. He noted that while the general environment remains calm, “pockets of lawlessness, including goon-hiring, vehicle vandalism, and physical attacks” have already occurred.

“We are in the middle of the electoral process, and incidents have started to emerge. So far, over 60 suspects have been arrested in connection with election-related violence,” Kituuma said.

Police issued strict guidelines to candidates and their agents, warning against bribery, intimidation, use of tribal or religious sentiments, and illegal campaign tactics.

“Anyone who defies the law will be dealt with decisively. These elections must not become a platform for lawlessness,” Kituuma emphasised.

To reinforce the security posture, Byakagaba recently toured several hotspot districts, including Isingiro, Ssembabule, Rukungiri, Rukiga, and Kabale. His tour aimed at galvanising local commanders and ensuring impartial enforcement of the law.

According to Kituuma, Byakagaba met with district security committees and political leaders, urging officers to remain neutral and professional.

“The IGP reminded all commanders that they have full legal backing to act and prevent breakdowns in law and order. No excuse will be accepted for inaction,” he said