Winnie Nabiryo Recounts Brutal Assault by Security Operatives Amid Kawempe North By-Election Campaign
A shocking case of police brutality has emerged ahead of the highly contested Kawempe North by-election, as security operatives allegedly assaulted opposition supporters attempting to campaign for the National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola.
Nabiryo Winnie, an aspiring lord councilor for Nakasero 4 Parish, has recounted her traumatic experience with the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JAT), accusing them of violently suppressing opposition activities without provocation.
According to Winnie, she and a colleague were part of a group leaving the NUP headquarters to join campaign activities when they were intercepted by security forces. Without any explanation or resistance, the operatives allegedly descended upon them, severely beating them.
Winnie revealed that she was repeatedly struck on the head, eventually losing consciousness. She was first rushed to a nearby pharmacy before being transferred to Mulago Hospital, where medical staff initially declined to treat her, citing other pressing cases.
Colleagues, led by aspiring NUP Mawokota South candidate Alex Makanga Kuuku, visited Winnie at her Kawempe residence on Friday. During the visit, she issued a strong statement condemning the Ugandan government's continued violation of human rights and suppression of political opposition. She called for immediate reforms to ensure fair and equitable electoral processes for all candidates.
The brutal incident raises fresh concerns about state repression and the lack of political freedom in Uganda. The use of excessive force against to not only opposition supporters but journalists as well, has been a persistent issue, often cited by human rights organizations and international observers. As the March 13 by-election nears, many fear increased crackdowns aimed at intimidating NUP supporters and suppressing their participation.
However, activists and opposition leaders are demanding accountability, urging the government to take a firm stance against human rights violations and ensure that security agencies operate within the law.
The tragic loss of former Kawempe North MP Muhammad Ssegirinya in January 2025 left a vacuum in leadership, prompting this by-election. However, the democratic process must not be marred by violence and intimidation. As Uganda moves forward, it remains crucial that all political parties are granted equal opportunity to campaign freely without fear of state-sanctioned violence.
The international community, civil society organizations, and human rights defenders must keep a close watch on the unfolding situation to ensure that democracy prevails in Uganda.
