UPC President Jimmy Akena Alleges Political Interference, Urges Protest Vote Against Museveni
Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) President Jimmy Akena has accused President Yoweri Museveni of influencing his removal from the list of presidential candidates, describing the process as unfair and politically motivated.
Akena made the remarks during a press briefing at the UPC headquarters in Kampala, where he stated that the current electoral environment is compromised. He expressed frustration on behalf of his supporters, noting widespread disappointment and anger over the decision.
“What is happening is not an election,” Akena said, calling the nomination process “biased” and designed to block his candidacy. His comments drew strong reactions from attendees at the briefing.
During the press conference, Akena urged his supporters to refrain from voting for President Museveni. Instead, he encouraged them to select from the remaining seven presidential candidates or to write his name on the ballot as a symbol of protest against perceived injustice.
He emphasized that he had met all legal requirements for nomination and described his exclusion as politically motivated. “I want my supporters to send a message. Do not give Museveni your vote,” he said, urging Ugandans to demonstrate their dissatisfaction through the ballot.
Criticism of Security Conduct
Akena also criticized the conduct of security forces during the campaign period, claiming that officers had exceeded their mandate by assaulting opposition supporters and leaders. He accused the Electoral Commission of remaining silent and failing to address complaints submitted by his team.
He called on Ugandans to stand firm and defend their democratic rights, affirming his commitment to advocating for fairness in the political process. “We shall not give up,” he said, stressing that the country deserves better and that all candidates should be treated equally.
The briefing concluded with UPC supporters chanting party slogans, while Akena assured them that the party’s struggle for political fairness would continue beyond the election period.
