Police sound alarm over dangerous campaign boat processions on Lake Victoria

Police in Uganda have raised concerns over the safety of campaign boat processions on Lake Victoria, where supporters escort candidates to rallies in wooden boats, often in ways that could lead to fatalities.

According to Twaha Kasirye, the Greater Masaka Regional Police Spokesperson, such practices endanger lives.

“First, they have no life jackets to survive in case of an accident. Second, they are standing and dancing, making movements in the boat. Any slight wave could cause an accident,” he said.

Kasirye noted that the boats are also driven recklessly and at high speed, which could lead to a boat collision ending in a fatal accident. He urged candidates and their supporters to prioritize safety while traveling on water.

“We don’t expect them to overload these boats. Those driving should do so safely, ensuring everyone on board has a life jacket and avoiding unnecessary movements that may disrupt the boat’s balance,” Kasirye said.

Political analyst Bambalazaabwe Semakula noted that boat processions are usually meant to boost a candidate’s visibility and political momentum, but candidates have a duty to take responsibility for the safety of their supporters.

“Politicians need people, and supporters being reckless in a boat, whether it is moving fast or not is a risk to life,” Semakula said.

He advised supporters to wait at landing sites and welcome candidates from the shore rather than sail dangerously in processions.

Semakula also pointed to the hidden hazards beneath the lake surface, saying, “From 2018, water levels rose and submerged rocks we once knew. These rocks are still there, though invisible. It’s very easy for a boat in a procession to hit one and people drown.”

Another political analyst, Semafumu Kagwa, said safety is not only the responsibility of the candidates but also of the supporters themselves.

“This is not only the mandate of candidates but also of supporters. They should join processions knowing they are safe while traveling on water,” he said.

Kagwa urged especially the youth, who form the majority in these campaign boat processions, to prioritize their safety during the election period.