Africa-Press – Uganda. The Electoral Commission (EC) has warned candidates in Kamwenge District against using church and mosque fundraising events as platforms for political campaigns, saying such practices amount to voter bribery.
Kamwenge District Election Administrator, George William Magezi, issued the warning during the ongoing nomination exercise for Local Government Councils at Sub-county, Town, and Municipal Division levels, including Special Interest Groups (SIGs).
“We have observed a tendency where some candidates turn fundraising events at churches or mosques into campaign rallies. This is unacceptable and illegal,” Magezi cautioned. “Any candidate found fundraising in religious institutions will face legal penalties, including possible disqualification.”
He further appealed to religious leaders to avoid inviting politicians to participate in campaign-related activities during services or fundraising ceremonies. “Religious institutions must remain neutral. We urge leaders not to involve themselves in acts that could compromise the electoral process,” he said.
His remarks echo earlier guidance from the EC Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, who stressed that candidates are prohibited from engaging in fundraising activities at places of worship during campaigns.
“The law is clear—candidates must not use religious platforms for political gain. This safeguards both the sanctity of worship and the integrity of elections,” Byabakama noted.
The directive comes as the nomination process for local government candidates continues across the district, with the EC urging all aspirants to conduct themselves within the law.
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