Apac, Uganda: Authorities in Atik Division under Apac Municipal Council have launched a stern crackdown on traders engaging in political activities within the Apac Main Market, warning that those who mix business with politics will face heavy fines, suspensions, and possible expulsion as the 2026 election season gains momentum.
The directive was issued by Mr Jamara Sam, the Senior Assistant Town Clerk of Atik Division, following growing tension among vendors accused of turning the market into a political arena filled with rival campaign slogans, loud music, and confrontations.
“We shall not allow the market to be turned into a campaign ground,” Mr. Jamara said during a Wednesday market meeting. “Any vendor found playing political music, displaying campaign posters, or inciting others will face fines. This market is for business, not politics.”
Under the new order, the use of heavy sound systems and the display of campaign posters within market premises are strictly banned.
Mr. Samuel Atine, the Law Enforcement Officer of Atik Division, announced that the crackdown will be enforced under a revived market by-law aimed at curbing indiscipline and restoring order.
“We have tolerated too much indiscipline,” Mr. Atine said. “Any trader spreading false rumours or using abusive language will pay Shs100,000, while those causing confusion will be fined Shs50,000. Repeat offenders will face suspension.”
A five-member market task force has been formed to monitor operations during the election period. The team, chaired by Mrs. Caroline Opio, includes Ms. Eunice Akello (Vice Chairperson), Mr. Joel Ogwal (Secretary), and Mr. Fred Edwong (Head of Security).
Mixed Reactions from Vendors
The new directive has divided opinion among traders. Some welcomed it as a necessary step to restore peace, while others accused the authorities of stifling free expression.
Margaret Adong, a tomato seller, said while she respects the ban, her political beliefs remain unchanged. “They can stop us from playing music, but not from believing,” she said. “Politics is part of who we are. I will quietly continue supporting my candidate.”
Bonny Acup, a butcher, called the crackdown “unfair and unnecessary,” arguing that traders have a right to express political opinions. “Every election, they come with new restrictions. If they fine me, I’ll pay, but I won’t pretend I don’t care about who leads this country.”
Fish vendor Eunice Akello said the ban may silence traders without addressing underlying frustrations. “Politics affects everything — prices of fish, charcoal, even taxes. How do we separate business from politics?”
However, some traders have welcomed the move, saying political tension had turned the market toxic.
Peter Ocen Bako, a grain dealer, said the measure was overdue. “People had stopped greeting each other because of politics. The market was turning into a campaign rally. This crackdown will bring peace.”
Eunice Ayo, a vegetable seller, added that customers had started avoiding the market because of chaos and noise. “We are here to sell, not argue. Let politics stay at rallies. The ban is good for business.”
Leaders Defend Crackdown
Mr. Joel Ogwal, LC1 Chairperson for Industrial Cell, said the enforcement is based on an old market by-law that had long been ignored. “This by-law was passed years ago, but people took it lightly. We are now reactivating it to bring back discipline and harmony.”
Division leaders insist the move is not an attempt to suppress political rights but to separate commerce from politics. “Our intention is not to silence anyone,” Mr Jamara clarified. “We are protecting livelihoods. People come here to earn a living, not to fight over political differences.”
As Apac enters an increasingly competitive election period, the Atik Division crackdown has sparked debate, balancing between maintaining peace in public spaces and upholding citizens’ rights to political expression.
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