KASESE – With days to the polling day, former Leader of Opposition in Parliament Winnie Kiiza has warned youth against engaging in violence at polling stations.
Addressing voters on January 10, 2026, at Kyanya central ward, Kyanya trading centre, Kyanya town council in Kasese district, Kiiza said such actions will undermine the democratic process and harm the community.
“We come here as ANT party to warn you against potential violence and intimidation at polling stations. You saw what happened when the Rwenzururu Kingdom’s Buhikira Royal Palace was attacked, and our people were killed in broad daylight. We want you to come in big numbers, vote and extend the 20 metres as per the law establishes until the ballots are counted and results declared,” she said.
The Electoral Commission has put in place measures to ensure a peaceful and transparent electoral process, but Kiiza urged youth to focus on peaceful campaigning and to avoid being used by politicians to engage in violence. (All Photos by Isaac Nuwagaba)
“We do not want you to engage in open confrontation with security at polling stations, but come ready to vote for change. We have had enough of 40 years of National Resistance Movement (NRM) government, and you must change to a government that puts citizens above leaders,” Kiiza insisted.
The Electoral Commission has put in place measures to ensure a peaceful and transparent electoral process, but Kiiza urged youth to focus on peaceful campaigning and to avoid being used by politicians to engage in violence.
“I, however, call on security agencies to remain vigilant and ensure that all citizens can exercise their right to vote without fear or intimidation. Peaceful change of government works for us all, including security forces who have families among us,” Kiiza said.
The situation in Kasese is being closely monitored, with reports of tensions between supporters of different candidates expressing concern over the potential for violence and urging all parties to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
Muntu promises industrial hub
Maj. Gen. (rtd) Gregory Mugisha Muntu promised to establish an industrial hub in Kasese to tap into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) market and boost Uganda’s economic growth, create jobs, and increase trade with neighbouring countries.
Muntu emphasised the importance of strengthening trade ties with DRC, highlighting the potential for Uganda to become a key player in regional trade, leveraging its strategic location and resources.
“When trusted with power, we plan to include investing in infrastructure, such as roads and border facilities, to facilitate the movement of goods and people and focus on agro-processing, manufacturing and tourism development,” he pledged.
Julius Baluku, a resident, said, “We are excited about Muntu’s pledge, as it will open up new markets for our products and create jobs for our people.”
Kasese railway
Muntu hinted at revamping the Kilembe copper mines and Kasese railway in a bid to boost Uganda’s economy as a way of reviving the mining sector and promoting industrialisation.
The Kilembe copper mines, located in Kasese district, have been dormant for decades due to various challenges, including low copper prices, outdated equipment, and insecurity.
However, with the global demand for copper on the rise, particularly for electric vehicles and renewable energy, Muntu sees an opportunity to revive the mines.
Muntu’s plan to revamp the Kasese railway is aimed at facilitating the transportation of copper and other minerals from the region to the port of Mombasa. The railway line, which was previously used to transport copper concentrate from Kilembe to Jinja, has been non-functional for years.
Muntu shall campaign in Bushenyi district on Sunday.