By Patrick Kakanyero
Uganda has once again entered its familiar, electric season, the election period. It’s the time when political slogans fill the air, campaign songs dominate radio stations, and streets come alive with processions and posters. The nation is buzzing with passion, debate, and, at times, tension. With multiple political parties and candidates all eyeing victory, emotions can easily spill over.
This is the moment for Ugandans to rise above the noise and remember what truly matters, peace, truth, and the right to vote freely for the candidate of their choice. Here’s how you can stay safe, informed, and ready to make your voice count during this charged season.
1. Prioritise Your Safety Above All.
Political excitement can turn unpredictable within the blink of an eye. You might want to attend rallies, express your support, or engage in discussions, but safety must always come first.
Avoid crowds that seem tense or confrontational. A peaceful rally can quickly spiral into chaos when provoked. If you notice signs of agitation, shouting, stone-throwing, or the arrival of armed security personnel suddenly, leave immediately. No political party or candidate is worth your safety.
Also, avoid wearing party colours or symbols in sensitive areas. What looks like pride to one group may appear like provocation to another. Blend in, stay neutral when necessary, and always plan your movements with caution. That does not in any way change the inner heart and mind about your candidate.
If you use public transport, choose routes less known for political confrontations. And if you’re heading out on voting day, leave early, vote peacefully, and return home immediately unless you’re a candidate agent. The best way to contribute to peace is by staying disciplined and level-headed.
2. Be Careful Where You Get Your Information.
In this digital age, misinformation spreads faster than wildfire. Fake news, edited videos, and misleading posts are flooding social media. Unfortunately, not every message shared on X, WhatsApp or Facebook is true, even when it comes from someone you trust.
Always verify before you share. Follow credible and verified news outlets, reputable journalists, and the official Electoral Commission pages for accurate updates. Cross-check stories before reacting or commenting. False information not only confuses the public but can also fuel unnecessary panic or violence. Remember, staying informed means being selective. The goal isn’t to read everything, it’s to understand what’s real and relevant.
3. Respect Different Political Opinions.
Uganda’s democracy thrives on diversity. People will always support different parties, often for deeply personal reasons. Don’t let political differences destroy friendships, families, or workplaces. Healthy debate is good; hostility is not. Avoid heated political arguments, especially online.
Keyboard wars rarely change minds; they only harden hearts. Speak respectfully, listen even when you disagree, and remember that every citizen is entitled to their opinion.
Politics will come and go, but the relationships you build will outlast any election. Do not tear down your social fabric over temporary political divisions.
4. Exercise Your Constitutional Right to Vote.
Amid all the noise and propaganda, endeavour to be a proper Ugandan. It’s easy to forget the heart of democracy: your vote. It is not just a right; it’s a responsibility. On election day, go out and vote peacefully, proudly, and independently without coercion.
Don’t be swayed by money, fear, or manipulation. Choose leaders based on character, ideas, and integrity, not promises shouted through loudspeakers. When you mark that ballot, you are shaping Uganda’s future, not just for yourself but for generations to come.
And once you’ve voted, protect the sanctity of that process. Avoid illegal gatherings near polling stations, respect electoral officials, and don’t attempt to photograph your ballot. Let the process be free and fair.
5. Stay Calm After the Results.
Once the votes are counted, emotions will run high. Some will celebrate, others will feel disappointed. But the measure of a true democracy isn’t just how we vote, it’s how we respond after the results are announced.
Let’s resist the temptation to provoke, mock, or fight. Let’s be patient as disputes, if any, are resolved through lawful channels. Remember: peace is not weakness, it’s wisdom. The nation needs every citizen to stay calm, vigilant, and united, regardless of who wins.
6. Keep Hope Alive.
Elections can be noisy and messy, but they also remind us of something powerful: Ugandans care deeply about their country. Every chant, every debate, every ballot represents hope for a better tomorrow. Let’s channel that energy into constructive action.
Volunteer in your community, mentor young voters, support civic education, and hold leaders accountable long after the campaigns end. Democracy doesn’t stop at the ballot box; it lives in how we treat each other every day.
Final Word
This election season, let’s choose peace, truth, and unity for Uganda. The power lies with us, the people, who believe in a brighter future. As you prepare to vote, stay safe, smart, and hopeful. Our destiny depends on calm, informed citizens who love and protect their country.
The writer is a purpose-driven leader whose goal is to drive tangible and inclusive change in communities that warrant development is both fair and future-ready.
