Kampala, Uganda – Political tensions are mounting as the country gears up for the 2026 general elections, following a stern warning from General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of President Yoweri Museveni and a top commander in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
In a message posted on his official Twitter account, Gen Muhoozi cautioned the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) and its leader, Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, against intimidating voters during the upcoming polls. He declared that the army will be deployed to all polling stations nationwide to ensure peaceful voting.
“No more intimidating voters for NUP. This election, they will face it off with UPDF at every polling station in Uganda,” the tweet read in part.
The statement has sparked intense debate across political and civic circles, with supporters and critics offering sharply divided views. While some Ugandans see the move as a guarantee of security on election day, others argue that the presence of the military at polling stations risks intimidating voters and undermining democratic freedoms.
Uganda’s electoral history has often been marred by allegations of voter intimidation, harassment of opposition supporters, and heavy deployment of security forces. Opposition figures, particularly Bobi Wine and his NUP party, have previously accused the state of using security agencies to suppress dissent and tilt the political playing field.
Political analysts say Gen Muhoozi’s remarks highlight both the government’s resolve to maintain tight control over the electoral process and the growing tension between state security organs and opposition supporters. “While the government frames this as a protective measure, it also raises questions about fairness, neutrality, and the independence of the electoral process,” said one analyst.
So far, Bobi Wine and the NUP leadership have not officially responded to the warning. However, members of the opposition have consistently expressed fears that the militarisation of elections could escalate clashes rather than prevent them.
On social media, reactions to Gen Muhoozi’s announcement have been mixed. Some citizens welcomed the promise of tighter security, saying it could prevent chaos and violence at polling stations. Others, however, condemned the remarks as an attempt to stifle the opposition through fear and force.
As Uganda edges closer to the 2026 polls, the role of the UPDF in the electoral process has become a flashpoint in national debate. Whether the army’s presence will enhance security or deepen political mistrust remains a question at the heart of Uganda’s democratic journey.
