President Museveni Sends Minister Babalanda to Console Buwenge Families, Promises Justice for LC1 Election Victims

What the report says

Watchdog Uganda reported that President Yoweri Museveni sent Minister for the Presidency Babirye Milly Babalanda to Buwenge Town Council in Jinja District to represent him at burial ceremonies for two residents killed during violence linked to Local Council I elections. The ceremonies took place on Wednesday and Thursday after clashes at Buwenge Progressive Academy Polling Station in Kabi Zone on Tuesday, July 28.

The outlet identified the deceased as 19-year-old Fred Kalulu of Market Zone, who reportedly died at the scene, and 23-year-old Latibu Ikaali, who died later from gunshot wounds at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital. Watchdog Uganda reported that security personnel opened fire after election-related clashes broke out at the polling station.

Babalanda conveyed Museveni’s condolences and said the government would pursue investigations so that any responsible parties are dealt with under the law, according to the report. She criticised election violence and urged residents to use lawful channels for resolving disputes. She also faulted local security leadership, saying Resident District Commissioners are responsible for district security coordination and warning that officials who neglect their duties could face disciplinary action.

The report said each bereaved family received Shs10 million from Museveni and Shs5 million from the Inspector General of Police. Babalanda also called for stronger coordination by RDCs, police and other security agencies during elections, along with community sensitisation on peaceful participation. The outlet noted that LC1 elections are part of Uganda’s grassroots governance system, intended to help communities choose local leaders and improve service delivery.