By Kenneth Wamatoyi
BUSOGA
Police in Busoga North are investigating the deaths of Lwawanyaga Swaliki and Peter Kaluya.
Swaliki was killed during the NRM primary elections held in Luswiyinga Village, Natamo Parish, Bulanga Town Council, Luuka District with Nambugo Peterson and Oketch Ivan sustaining injuries.
The incident occurred after voting failed to take place on Tuesday, May 6th, 2025, due to violence at the polling station. A repeat of the vote was scheduled for today, May 7th, but was again marred by violence and chaos. This latest unrest resulted in the death of one person, injuries to two civilians, and injuries to a police officer.
Witnesses report that the violence erupted near the conclusion of the voting process. Youths reportedly began rioting, frightening the election officer, who had not yet declared the winner. Police intervened to protect the election officer, and in response to escalating chaos, fired bullets into the air and used teargas to disperse the crowd.
Busoga North Police spokesperson, Mr. Kasadha Michael, stated that the injured individuals were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, while the deceased was transported to Iganga Hospital for a postmortem examination. He assured the community that justice would be served and urged residents to remain calm and respect each other’s political choices.
Mr. Kasadha emphasized that investigations are ongoing and warned that those interfering with the electoral process or security operations would be arrested and prosecuted. He added that similar incidents were reported in other parts of the region.
In Kamuli District, some villagers allegedly fled with voter registers, and police are currently pursuing those responsible. In Buyende District, election-related clashes were also reported. Authorities confirmed that any cases involving disruption of the electoral process will be thoroughly investigated and presented before court.
Meanwhile, in Mayuge District, six individuals were arrested following the murder of Peter Kaluya, a supporter of Mr. Isaac Isabirye, shortly after results were announced in Bulubude Village, Malongo Subcounty. Busoga East Police spokesperson, Mr. Michael Kafayo, said the suspects, believed to be supporters of a rival candidate, attempted to seize declaration forms from the village registrar. Kaluya intervened and was fatally beaten. The suspects are now in custody and will soon face murder charges in court.
This wave of violence reflects broader unrest during the NRM party primaries held on Tuesday across Busoga region and the country at large. The elections, which took place at over 72,000 gazetted polling stations nationwide, are intended to select local council leaders to form grassroots committees under the guidance of NRM National Chairperson, President Yoweri Museveni.
