The Electoral Commission has issued a formal warning to Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, following reports from police detailing 62 alleged electoral offences linked to his ongoing campaign activities.
In a letter addressed to the National Unity Platform (NUP) leader, EC Chairperson Simon Byabakama said the Commission had received and reviewed submissions from the Uganda Police Force documenting what authorities describe as repeated breaches of electoral laws and campaign guidelines.
According to the Commission, the alleged offences span multiple districts and include campaigning outside the authorised timetable, defiance of lawful security directives, and use of language deemed inflammatory or inciting, contrary to provisions of the Presidential Elections Act and related electoral regulations.
Justice Byabakama noted that all presidential candidates and their agents were issued with harmonised campaign guidelines at the start of the campaign period and that adherence to these rules is a legal obligation, not an option. He cautioned that persistent non-compliance undermines the integrity of the electoral process and public order.
“The Commission is concerned by the pattern emerging from reports submitted by security agencies and urges strict compliance with the law,” the EC chairperson stated, warning that continued violations could invite action under the law.
The EC clarified that while the warning does not amount to disqualification or criminal sanction at this stage, it serves as a formal notice that continued disregard of campaign regulations could trigger enforcement measures as provided for in electoral legislation.
Police reports referenced by the Commission include incidents involving unauthorised processions, obstruction of public highways, and confrontations between supporters and security personnel during campaign engagements in several parts of the country.
Bobi Wine and his party have consistently accused security agencies of selective enforcement and intimidation, arguing that opposition campaigns face stricter scrutiny compared to those of ruling party candidates. At the time of publication, NUP had not issued an official response to the EC’s latest warning.
The development comes amid heightened political activity as Uganda moves closer to the 2026 general elections set to be held on January 15, with civil society groups and international observers repeatedly urging all stakeholders, candidates, security agencies, and electoral authorities, to uphold the rule of law and ensure peaceful participation.
The Electoral Commission reiterated its call for lawful, orderly and issue-based campaigns, stressing that it remains committed to delivering a credible electoral process in line with the Constitution and Uganda’s electoral laws.
