UgandaToday: Acholi Elders Condemn Violence in Nwoya, Amuru and Gulu — Join National Outcry for Peaceful 2026 Elections
By Uganda Today Staff Writer
Gulu / Kampala, Uganda — 12 December 2025
A prominent group of elders and leaders from the Acholi sub-region has released a strongly worded letter condemning recent violent acts against civilians and supporters of opposition presidential candidate Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) in Nwoya, Amuru and Gulu City. The statement, dated 10 December 2025, accuses local political operatives and “delinquent children” known as “Aguu” of being used to inflict harm on innocent citizens and calls for accountability by the state and the Electoral Commission. People Daily
“The people of Acholi and their leaders condemn in the strongest terms possible these premeditated acts of violence… The Acholi are peace-loving and tolerant people… we detest all forms of violence, planned and orchestrated by whomsoever.” — Acholi leaders’ letter.
Outrage Echoes Across Uganda
The Acholi leaders’ condemnation has been met with wider reactions from political figures, cultural leaders and civil society voices concerned about the rising violence in the build-up to Uganda’s 15 January 2026 presidential election.
Bobi Wine and Opposition Voices
Opposition presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi has publicly welcomed the condemnation, stating that unified voices against violence are critical to restoring sanity in the electoral process. On social media, Kyagulanyi reiterated calls for Electoral Commission accountability and an end to military and police intimidation during campaigns.
Police Call for Law and Order
In eastern Uganda’s Iganga District, Uganda Police Commissioner Dinah Kyasiimire condemned the shooting of an NUP supporter and pledged accountability while urging citizens and political actors to “work together to keep Uganda safe.”
Cultural Leaders Join the Call for Peace
Buganda Kingdom Premier Condemns Violence
The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has repeatedly called for peaceful, non-violent elections, criticizing the brutality faced by civilians and calling on security forces to respect citizens’ rights. Most recently, Mayiga condemned campaign violence directed at civilians and warned that treating citizens “like wild beasts” could lead to chaos if unaddressed. NTV Uganda – Turning on you world
Religious and Civil Voices Appeal for Harmony
Multiple faith leaders have also spoken out, emphasising that peaceful participation and tolerance are essential for democratic stability. During a civic dialogue in Gulu, Sheikh Khalil called for freedom for all political contestants to campaign without intimidation and urged leaders to promote tolerance and peace in their messaging.
Public Concern Over Militarisation and Repression
International reporting confirms violent clashes between security forces and opposition supporters in northern Uganda, including Gulu, where security personnel reportedly beat opposition campaigners, prompting criticism from both local and global voices concerned about civil liberties. Reuters
What This Means for Uganda’s Elections
As the nation approaches one of its most closely watched elections in decades, voices from across regional, cultural, political, and religious spheres are converging on a common message: violence must not define Uganda’s democratic process. Highlighting the Acholi leaders’ letter alongside reactions from both central regions and civil society underscores a broad demand for accountability, order, and respect for human rights.
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