Uganda’s opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) has accused state security operatives of abducting and mistreating its deputy president, escalating tensions over alleged human rights violations and electoral malpractice ahead of the upcoming Local Council I (LCI) elections.
In a press briefing held at the party’s headquarters in Makerere Kavule, NUP leaders said the incident reflects a broader pattern of repression targeting opposition figures.
The party claimed its deputy president was “manhandled” by security officers before being taken to an undisclosed location under unclear circumstances.
NUP officials described the incident as part of what they termed “persistent human rights abuses” under the current administration.
They accused security agencies of operating outside the law and using intimidation to weaken political dissent.
The party, however, did not provide immediate details on the identity of the officers involved or the whereabouts of the detained official.
The development adds to growing concerns among opposition groups over the conduct of security forces in politically sensitive periods.
Uganda has in recent years faced criticism from civil society and international observers over alleged excessive use of force, arbitrary arrests, and suppression of opposition activities.
Beyond the alleged abduction, the party’s Election Management Committee (EMC) turned its focus to the forthcoming LCI elections, urging citizens to participate in large numbers despite what it called attempts to manipulate the process.
NUP claimed its field teams had documented incidents where candidates aligned with the ruling establishment were bribing voters using basic tools such as hand hoes.
According to the party, such practices risk undermining the credibility of grassroots elections, which play a key role in local governance structures.
The EMC warned that voter bribery and intimidation could compromise the integrity of the polls if not addressed by electoral authorities.
NUP called on the public to remain vigilant and resist inducements, emphasizing that free and fair participation is essential for democratic accountability.
The party also urged relevant institutions to investigate both the alleged abduction and reported electoral malpractices.