By Frank Kamuntu
Tensions are rising in Mubende after an incident involving the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr. Kyamuzigita Nayebare, who allegedly ordered a group of young men to pull down a campaign billboard belonging to Hon. Dr. Fred Mukasa Mbidde.
The billboard, which was strategically placed in Kiruma Subcounty to boost Mbidde’s visibility in Buwekula County, was reportedly dismantled by a team identified by residents as Gerald, Bashir, Mulongo Kato, and Kyamuhingi, all said to be acting on the RDC’s instructions.
The move has sparked outrage and drawn sharp criticism from legal and political circles, with many questioning why a government official would involve himself in what appears to be partisan interference.
Under Ugandan law, tampering with or destroying campaign materials such as posters and billboards is a criminal offense. The Election Act and the Penal Code both prohibit such acts, describing them as violations of property rights and an obstruction of the democratic process.
Hon. Dr. Fred Mukasa Mbidde, who is contesting to represent Buwekula County in Parliament, has since moved to take legal action. He has instructed his lawyers to file criminal charges against the RDC and those involved in the act. Mbidde says this behavior not only violates election laws but also represents a clear abuse of office by a person charged with protecting fairness and order.
“This is not just about my billboard,” Mbidde said through his legal team. “It’s about standing up to impunity and ensuring that the rules apply to everyone, whether you’re a candidate or a government official.”
Legal experts have weighed in, reminding public officials that Article 20 and 21 of the Constitution, together with electoral laws, protect all candidates’ right to campaign freely without intimidation or interference. They warn that anyone caught damaging campaign property or intimidating candidates can face prosecution, fines, or even imprisonment.
The incident has ignited heated debate among residents and political commentators, many of whom are calling for stronger enforcement of the law to prevent such acts ahead of the 2026 elections.
“This kind of behavior undermines public trust,” said one political analyst in Mubende. “If an RDC can order the destruction of a candidate’s campaign material, what message does that send about fairness in our elections?”
As investigations continue, all eyes are now on law enforcement and the Electoral Commission to see whether those responsible will be held accountable. Stay tuned for more updates on this case!
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