Minister Probes Alleged Irregularities in Kasangati LC I Elections

What the report says

Uganda’s Minister of Local Government, Hon. Balam Barugahare, met stakeholders in Kasangati Town Council to examine complaints about alleged irregularities in recent LC I elections, according to Wakiso District Local Government. The meeting was held after President Yoweri Museveni directed the minister to look into the dispute. Kasangati Town Council covers nine wards and 50 villages.

Residents and other participants reportedly raised concerns including the alleged transport of non-voters to polling places, possible miscounting of votes, voter bribery and intimidation, and claims that some people were declared chairpersons without having been duly elected. The minister also noted reports that some villages may not have held elections at all before chairpersons were announced.

Barugahare condemned the reported violence and misconduct, saying such practices damage democratic processes and Uganda’s reputation. He said the findings would be compiled and submitted to the president, and that fresh elections could be ordered if serious irregularities are confirmed. Individuals found responsible could also face action. The minister additionally urged residents to reject divisive politics and support government development programmes.

Local officials, including the Wakiso district CAO, the RDC, the Kasangati town clerk and other leaders, attended the meeting. In general, LC I elections choose local village-level leaders in Uganda, making the dispute important for grassroots administration and community representation.