Africa-Press – Uganda. National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu has pledged to halt military operations on Lake Victoria and hold security officers accountable for alleged torture and extortion of fishermen if elected president.
Addressing a rally at Kasaali Playground in Buvuma District, Kyagulanyi said the continued deployment of the military on the lake had deepened the suffering of already impoverished fishing communities.
“Our fishermen are not criminals. They are Ugandans struggling to survive. When we take over government, the military will be removed from the lake, and those who have tortured and extorted our people will be held accountable,” Kyagulanyi said.
His campaign visit to the island district was earlier marked by tension after security personnel barred NUP supporters from using a ferry to escort him to Buvuma, forcing many to seek alternative means of transport.
Kyagulanyi criticised what he described as misplaced government priorities, arguing that resources spent on security operations against political opponents could instead be used to improve social services.
“Billions of shillings are being spent to intimidate citizens. That money could build hospitals, schools and roads here in Buvuma, where there is not even a single tarmacked road,” he said.
Rev. Brian Kiggundu of Buvuma Mission Parish, who also addressed the rally, condemned what he termed an uneven political playing field and the excessive use of force by security agencies.
“We appeal to the police and the army to stop misusing guns and tear gas on innocent Ugandans. Let the people exercise their democratic rights freely,” Rev. Kiggundu said.
He further urged the government to address youth unemployment, noting that lack of job opportunities had left many young people frustrated.
“If the youth are given employment opportunities, they will not be unruly or used to fuel violence,” he added.
Residents of Buvuma told Kyagulanyi that the district continues to struggle with poor service delivery, citing rampant land grabbing, a weak health system, and persistent harassment of fishermen on Lake Victoria.
“We have no hospital, no good roads, and our fishermen are beaten and robbed on the lake. We feel forgotten,” one resident said.
The NUP Woman Member of Parliament for Buvuma District and incumbent, Suzan Nakaziba Mugabi, urged voters not to be intimidated by security agencies during the electoral process.
“Do not fear illegal orders meant to scare you, including being told to leave polling stations after voting. Your vote is your right, and the law requires you to remain at least 20 metres away,” she said.
Kyagulanyi concluded by vowing to prioritise island districts if elected president.
“Buvuma deserves dignity, development and justice. This suffering must end,” he said.
Buvuma District is one of Uganda’s island districts on Lake Victoria, where fishing remains the main source of livelihood. However, residents say heavy security deployment and poor infrastructure continue to undermine their economic activities.
For More News And Analysis About Uganda Follow Africa-Press
