Bamasaaba Cultural Institution commits to a peaceful 2026 election
He said violence has no place in Uganda’s politics and pledged to mobilize the Bamasaaba community to vote peacefully.
Kampala: The Bamasaaba Cultural Institution has joined other national stakeholders in advocating for a peaceful 2026 General Election.
Hon. Steven Masiga, the spokesperson of the Bamasaaba Cultural Institution, represented the institution and also spoke on behalf of other spokespersons from various traditional and cultural institutions. He emphasized that peaceful elections are a cornerstone of any democratic state.
“We abhor bloodshed during elections. As Bamasaaba, the only time we accept the spilling of blood is during our traditional circumcision rituals not in the political arena,” Masiga noted.
The conference was convened by the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD) and its partners, attracting participants from cultural institutions, the Inter-Religious Council, the Elders Forum, political parties under the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD), youth groups, and other formations.
NIMD was represented by its Country Director Mr. Bahiga Primus and senior officials including David Mugarura, Irene Achola, and Angella Kemirembe.
Speaking on the sidelines of the meeting, Hon. Masiga reaffirmed the Bamasaaba Cultural Institution’s commitment to promoting peaceful elections. He said violence has no place in Uganda’s politics and pledged to mobilize the Bamasaaba community to vote peacefully.
“As a cultural institution, we are uncomfortable seeing bloodshed during elections. Many of the troublemakers are part of our own communities, and we shall speak to them. I am happy to report that the Bugisu region has listened to our guidance, and from September—whether for parliamentary or presidential campaigns—things have remained peaceful. We shall continue spreading the message of peace for the remaining 30 days,” Masiga said.
Former Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, who served as Guest of Honour, also appealed for a peaceful election. In his address, he urged all participants to preach peace and provided a historical overview of Uganda’s past elections dating back to the 1960s.
He noted that elections have generally been peaceful except for a few isolated incidents, such as the one in Gulu, and called for investigations into what may have caused the disruptions.
Other speakers included the European Union Ambassador to Uganda, Bishop Paul Ssemogerere of Kampala Archdiocese, youth representatives, and leaders of political parties.
Do you have an advertisement or article you want to publish? Mail us at theugreports@gmail.com or WhatsApp +256757022363.
