Uganda: LC1 chairperson arrested over defacement of campaign posters in Rukungiri

Police in Rukungiri District have arrested a 42-year-old Local Council I chairperson, Darius Nabasa, in connection with the alleged defacement of campaign posters belonging to Maj Gen (rtd) Jim Muhwezi Katugugu, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer for Rujumbura Constituency.

Spokesperson, adding that Nabasa is currently detained at Rukungiri Police Station.

According to Elly Maate, Nabasa was arrested on Sunday night following investigations into the incident that occurred on January 7, 2026, at around 10:00 pm at Half London Trading Centre, located in Omukibungo village, Nyakagyeme Sub-county.

It is alleged that earlier on the same day, between 5:30pm and 5:54pm, Maj. Gen Muhwezi held a campaign rally at Half London Trading Centre in Omukibungo village, Rushasha Parish, Nyakagyeme sub-county, during which campaign posters were pinned around the area.

Police allege that Nabasa and other suspects demanded that Muhwezi seek permission from the local chairperson before holding any political rally in the area. The suspects allegedly destroyed campaign posters pinned around the area, prompting the launch of investigations.

"Police recorded statements from relevant witnesses, visited the crime scene, and recovered exhibits, including damaged campaign posters, which were photographed for evidential purposes," ASP Maate said.

Nabasa, the LC1 chairperson of Omukibungo village, is facing charges related to the destruction of campaign materials. ASP Maate emphasised that inquiries are still ongoing and efforts to arrest the remaining suspects are underway.

"I am asking the public to respect candidates' campaign posters because they are very expensive, and it is very criminal to deface a campaign poster," ASP Maate said, adding that police will not tolerate any form of violence or destruction of property during the election period.

Maate also called for peace and order during and after elections, saying police will do whatever it takes to maintain law and order.

"As police, we are ready to do our work of keeping law and order in the area, so stand warned," he added.