Two Killed During LC1 Election Violence in Buwenge Town Council, Jinja District
JINJA DISTRICT, Uganda – Two youths were killed after police opened fire during violent clashes that disrupted the LC1 elections in Buwenge Town Council, Jinja District, on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.
The deceased have been identified as Fred Kalulu, 19, who died at the scene, and Latibu Ikaali, 23, who later succumbed to gunshot injuries at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, where he had been rushed for emergency treatment.
According to police, the violence broke out after a group of individuals allegedly attempted to disrupt the voting process at polling stations in Market Zone and Kabi Zone.
Police Say Violence Erupted at Polling Station
Kiira Region Police spokesperson SP James Mubi said the incident occurred at around 11:21 a.m. at Buwenge Progressive Academy polling station in Kabi Zone.
He alleged that the violence was led by Richard Kakande, a candidate in the LC1 race, together with Fred Kalulu, Latibu Ikaali, and another suspect identified only as Bosco, who remains on the run.
According to police, the group allegedly attacked Electoral Commission officials and security personnel, disrupting what had been a peaceful voting exercise.
Police further stated that Kakande later boycotted the election, leaving his opponent, Muzamiru Nabikambi, in the lead. Nabikambi was subsequently declared the winner.
Chaos After Election Results
Authorities said the situation escalated shortly after the election results were announced.
Police allege that Kakande and his supporters stormed the polling station, confronting security officers and Electoral Commission officials in protest over the outcome.
During efforts to restore order, officers reportedly fired warning shots into the air. However, police say Fred Kalulu was struck by a stray bullet and died instantly, while Latibu Ikaali sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, where he later died.
The bodies of the two victims have since been transferred to the hospital mortuary pending postmortem examinations.
Police Launch Manhunt for Wanted Suspects
Police have declared Richard Kakande, Bosco, and other unidentified individuals wanted in connection with the election violence.
Authorities have urged anyone with information about their whereabouts to report to Buwenge Central Police Station (CPS) or Kiira North Division Police.
Buwenge Mayor Condemns Police Shooting
Following the incident, Buwenge Town Council Mayor Ismail Onzanya condemned the police response, describing the shooting as an excessive use of force.
The mayor called for the immediate transfer and reshuffle of police commanders stationed in Buwenge, arguing that public confidence in the local police leadership has been severely damaged.
Police Appeal for Calm
Meanwhile, Kiira Region Regional Police Commander (RPC) SSP Charles Nsaba appealed to residents to remain calm and reject violence during the ongoing electoral process.
He urged communities in Buwenge Town Council, Namulesa, Bugembe, Wanyange Lake, Mafubira, Masese, and Polota to avoid acts of political violence and embrace peaceful democratic participation.
Police say investigations into the fatal shooting and the election-related violence are ongoing.
