UPC Describes 2026 General Elections as Worst in Uganda’s History

By Jumah Kakomo

The opposition Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has described the 2026 general elections as the worst in Uganda’s history, citing alleged irregularities, violence, and voter intimidation.

Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday at the party headquarters in Kampala, UPC President Jimmy James Akena told journalists that the electoral process was severely compromised. He alleged that the polls were marred by widespread vote rigging and claimed that members of the army interfered with proceedings at several polling stations and vote tallying centers across the country.

Akena compared the 2026 elections to the disputed 1980 general elections held under former President Milton Obote. He argued that the recent polls were more flawed than those conducted in 1980 and said critics of Obote’s legacy should reassess their views in light of what he described as shortcomings in the latest electoral process.

The UPC leader attributed his party’s poor performance to what he termed the government’s failure to release funds under the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD), as well as alleged interference by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

According to Akena, the NRM deployed heavily in areas considered UPC strongholds, particularly in the Lango sub-region. He further claimed that some UPC leaders were placed under house arrest during the campaign period. He also cited financial constraints, saying the absence of IPOD funding limited the party’s ability to effectively support and facilitate its candidates during the campaigns.

Akena urged newly elected party leaders to prioritize public service and focus on the interests of citizens rather than personal gain.

In addition, he criticized the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba—who is also the son of President Yoweri Museveni—accusing him of using threatening language and engaging in conduct the UPC considers inappropriate for his office.

He condemned what he described as “inhuman actions,” including alleged torture and threats directed at political figures. Akena also referred to comments reportedly made by General Kainerugaba about National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu, saying they had heightened political tensions.

Akena further noted that Kyagulanyi has not been seen in public since the February 15, 2026 general elections, a situation he said has raised concern among opposition members.