Uganda Election: UN Calls For Peaceful Polls

The Secretary-General to the United Nations (UN), Antonio Guterres has implored all political actors and their supporters in the Ugandan election to “refrain from the use of hate speech, intimidation and violence”. 

Guterres made this known in a statement while expressing concern over reports of violence and tensions in parts of the country on Thursday, January 14, 2020. 

Guterres in the statement urged all stakeholders to ensure the polls were conducted in an inclusive, transparent and peaceful manner.

The statement read in part, “Any electoral disputes should be resolved through legal and peaceful means.

“Further calls on the Ugandan authorities, particularly the security forces, to show maximum restraint during this period and act according to established human rights principles,” he said.

Guterres reiterated the organisation’s commitment to supporting the East African country in its quest for sustainable development and prosperity for its citizens.

AllNews had reports that Uganda’s long-time President, Yoweri Museveni is seeking a sixth elected term in office after 35 years in power.

He faces 10 challengers, including music star, Robert Kyagulanyi, best known by his stage name, Bobi Wine, seen as a real threat to him.

READ ALSO: Uganda Shuts Down All Social Media Platforms Ahead Of Election

Although Mr Museveni is facing nine other candidates in the election, Bobi Wine, loved by the youth, is his main challenger in the election slated for Thursday.

Human rights groups have accused security forces of using excessive force to break up opposition rallies during the campaign, reports the BBC.

The outlet quoted a government spokesman as saying the strong measures were necessary to enforce compliance with a ban on large crowds aimed at checking the coronavirus pandemic.