Africa-Press – Uganda. Gumbooted independent presidential hopeful Peterson Bogere has urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to ease the stringent requirements for collecting nomination signatures, saying the current process exposes aspirants to humiliation, exploitation, and unnecessary hardships.
Speaking in Katanga, Kimwanyi Zone, where he met a group of residents, Bogere said many individuals demanded money from him in exchange for their signatures, while others mocked and insulted him.
He said the experience had deeply undermined his dignity and distracted him from his mission of running a people-centered presidential campaign.
“I faced many challenges in this process. Some people asked me for money that I did not have, while others ridiculed me. But I have chosen to stay focused. I will not give up,” Bogere told the crowd.
Despite these setbacks, Bogere successfully gathered the required signatures from across the country and submitted his nomination forms to the Commission.
He said while the law aims to ensure national representation among candidates, the burden placed on aspirants—especially independents—can be overwhelming.
During the gathering, Bogere also delivered household essentials and school materials to local families, an initiative he said was aimed at uplifting living conditions.
Residents commended his gesture, describing him as a leader who shows genuine concern for ordinary people.
Asher Kajojo, one of Bogere’s coordinators, praised the aspirant’s outreach.
“He has demonstrated care for the welfare of citizens, unlike many politicians who only show up during campaigns,” Kajojo said.
Some locals echoed this view, noting that Peterson’s approach distinguished him from leaders they had previously supported.
In his address, Bogere also cautioned an individual identified as Nakato, who had reportedly provoked his wife, warning him against further harassment.
He appealed to residents to maintain respect and unity, stressing that personal conflicts should not overshadow community harmony.
Bogere reiterated his commitment to peaceful participation in the presidential race, vowing not to challenge the election outcome through disputes in other forums if he loses.
“If I am defeated, I will accept the results and continue standing with my supporters,” he assured.
Bogere Peterson is among more than 200 Ugandans who picked nomination forms to contest in the ongoing presidential by-election.
His plea to the Electoral Commission comes amid growing debate about whether current requirements for independent aspirants are fair and inclusive.
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