January 14th, 2021 marked Uganda’s national general elections for both presidential and parliamentary seats. The period leading up to the election had been marred by tensions, marked by incidents of violence and suppression of opposition candidates, especially Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine. Throughout the campaign, opposition rallies were frequently disrupted by security forces using live bullets and tear gas.
On election day, the violence escalated. Reports of Uganda’s military clashing with opposition polling agents highlighted ongoing human rights violations, contravening international standards. Numerous supporters and official election agents from opposition parties, particularly the National Unity Platform (NUP) and the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), were reportedly beaten and harassed by security forces. The military appeared to be targeting polling agents in what observers described as a politically motivated crackdown.
Polling agents for Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi, who was considered a frontrunner in the election according to several analyses and observers, faced severe mistreatment. Many were arrested or brutally assaulted. Additionally, election observers and civil society organizations were obstructed from monitoring or documenting events on election day, raising further concerns about transparency.
Over 100 opposition polling agents were reportedly subjected to brutal beatings, with some injuries described as life-threatening. One particularly shocking incident involved Madam Mwogezi Olivia, who suffered a severe beating at the hands of the military. She sustained a deep forehead cut, resulting in excessive bleeding and loss of consciousness. Olivia was rushed to Ark Medical Hospital for emergency care. Her refusal to hand over official declaration forms for Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi to the military allegedly prompted the attack, as security forces sought to confiscate evidence of electoral malpractice and tampering with official results.
Witnesses reported that Olivia endured severe violations of her rights, including being undressed and physically assaulted to the point of humiliation. Such actions not only inflicted physical harm but also undermined her dignity. She is currently recovering under medical supervision, supported by her family.
These widespread violations undermine the credibility of Uganda’s election process. The partiality displayed by security forces and their mistreatment of opposition polling agents call into question the possibility of free and fair elections in the country. Compounding these issues, Uganda’s communication commission shut down internet access on election day, stifling communication within the country and limiting the flow of information to the outside world.
In conclusion, the events of Uganda’s election day cast a shadow on the nation’s democratic process. The suppression of opposition, violent attacks on polling agents, the internet blackout, and the use of excessive force—particularly against women—highlight significant breaches of electoral and human rights. The brutal treatment of Madam Mwogezi Olivia symbolizes the broader injustices that occurred during the election.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Olivia and all those affected by the violence. We hope for her swift recovery and for greater accountability and respect for human rights in Uganda’s electoral processes.
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