Zombo issues stern warning over vandalism of campaign posters

Zombo: Authorities in Zombo District have issued a stern warning in response to widespread reports of vandalism targeting political campaign materials, particularly posters, as political actors vie for dominance ahead of key elections.

The deliberate destruction of campaign posters is a well-documented tactic used to suppress opponents’ visibility and influence in Uganda’s polarized political arena.

Despite significant financial investments, candidates frequently report that their posters are torn down, obscured, or removed by rivals.

Bruno Manano, the Zombo Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC), condemned the illegal practice and announced a UGX 50,000 reward for information or evidence leading to the arrest of those responsible.

“A bounty of UGX 50,000 has been set for anyone who provides credible information or apprehends individuals involved in destroying campaign materials,” Manano told this publication on May 8, 2025.

This escalation comes as preparations intensify for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries scheduled for July 2025, a key precursor to the 2026 general elections.

Posters have appeared in increasing numbers across homes, trees, utility poles, billboards, and roundabouts as politicians seek to bolster their visibility.

According to local authorities, vandalism has particularly surged in Zombo and Paidha Town Councils, where political contestation is heating up.

The defacement of campaign materials remains a persistent challenge in Uganda, especially during election cycles. It is fueled by deep-seated political divisions, low civic awareness, and inconsistent enforcement of electoral laws.

Amos Jacan, the Zombo District Youth Chairperson and a candidate for LCIII Chairperson of Paidha Town Council, voiced concern about the rising trend and called for mutual respect among candidates.

“I call on my fellow politicians to secure consent from building owners to avoid unauthorized removals. Regardless, this is an unlawful act we must reject,” Jacan emphasized.

Local leaders blame the trend on inadequate civic education and a lack of awareness about electoral laws. Some offenders, driven by ignorance or political fervor, may not recognize the seriousness of their actions. Weak enforcement further emboldens them, as arrests and prosecutions remain rare.

Hassan Ringtho, the Zombo Council Speaker, expressed dismay and called for stronger accountability measures.

Historically, urban centers like Gulu and Kampala have seen intense competition for high-visibility campaign spaces, with teams vying to dominate locations such as roundabouts and public walls often leading to vandalism and clashes.

What the law says

Ugandan law explicitly prohibits the defacement of campaign materials, classifying it as a criminal offense.

The Parliamentary Elections Act, 2005 (Section 83[2]) states that any person who maliciously defaces, removes, or tears any election poster of a nominated candidate commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding thirty currency points or imprisonment not exceeding one year, or both.

The Presidential Elections Act imposes similar penalties, including fines of up to UGX 480,000 or imprisonment for up to one year for vandalism of campaign materials.

Despite these clear provisions, enforcement remains inconsistent. Challenges include lack of evidence, fear of retaliation among victims, and alleged complicity by some local authorities.

Festus Ayikobua, the Zombo Resident District Commissioner, recently cautioned candidates against politics rooted in hate, division, or sectarianism. He advocated for a constructive and inclusive political discourse ahead of the elections.

Assistant RDC Manano also urged the public to report acts of vandalism, warning:

“If we don’t curb this trend now, it risks spiraling out of control during the national polls.”

Political analysts warn that despite Uganda’s solid legal framework, lax enforcement undermines the integrity of the electoral process. Candidates face growing barriers to campaign visibility, threatening the principles of free and fair elections.

Stakeholders emphasize the urgent need for stronger enforcement mechanisms, enhanced civic education, and impartiality from security agencies, to ensure a level playing field for all candidates ahead of 2026.

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