Makerere University’s Electoral Commission has suspended all physical campaigns in the ongoing guild elections, ordering that the process be conducted virtually following violence that disrupted a candidates’ debate.
In a statement dated March 28, commission chairperson Maureen Owomugisha warned that any student who defies the directive risks disciplinary action, including disqualification.
“All students’ guild elections shall be conducted virtually unless otherwise determined by the University student council,” the statement said.
The decision follows chaos on March 27 that forced officials to halt the 92nd Guild Presidential Debate, which had brought together 13 candidates at the university’s main hall. The debate, organised by the Electoral Commission, was suspended about an hour after it began when rival supporters clashed in the audience.
The confrontation broke out shortly after one of the candidates concluded presenting her manifesto, with supporters chanting and advancing toward rival groups, prompting security personnel to escort candidates and university officials from the venue.
Owomugisha cited Article 71 of the Makerere University Guild Constitution, which outlines electoral offences and penalties for those found guilty. “Article 71 (1) of the Makerere University Guild Constitution outlines electoral offences, while Article 71 (2) provides that any student found guilty of committing such offences shall, upon conviction by the appropriate tribunal, be subject to disciplinary action,” the statement reads in part.
The commission also banned acts such as physical campaigning, violence, hooliganism and defacement of university property, warning that offenders could face suspension from the university and exclusion from the electoral process.
Owomugisha directed all aspirants to immediately remove campaign materials, including posters placed on walls and other university structures. “Failure to comply will result in automatic disqualification from the electoral process and that these guidelines apply to both students within and outside the University premises,” she said.
The disruption marks a setback to efforts by the university to restore open student political engagement after years of restrictions on physical campaigning.
