Ahead of Uganda’s upcoming presidential election on January 15, 2026, the country’s Electoral Commission Chairman, Justice Simon Byabakama, has issued a firm warning to voters: leave polling stations immediately after casting your ballot, or face arrest. His statement, made during a recent press briefing, has ignited significant discussion across the country, particularly due to his use of the phrase “those who defy this instruction will be picked like grasshoppers.” With political tensions escalating, this warning has become a focal point for debate as the nation approaches election day.
Byabakama’s warning is part of a broader effort by the Electoral Commission to maintain order on election day in light of rising political tensions. With supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and opposition parties at odds, the EC is working to ensure that the election process runs smoothly, without disruptions. The directive is intended to prevent overcrowding and reduce the potential for violence at polling stations once voting has concluded.
Security forces have been put on high alert to enforce this directive, with both police and military personnel tasked with overseeing the election process and ensuring compliance with the new rules. The primary goal, Byabakama explained, is to prevent gatherings or lingering crowds around polling centers after voting ends. However, while the Electoral Commission maintains that the move is necessary to preserve order, critics have raised concerns that it could infringe on the rights of voters to peacefully observe the vote tallying process, a right protected under the Presidential Elections Act.
Opposition leaders have quickly criticized Byabakama’s warning, arguing that it could create a climate of fear and discourage voters from remaining at polling stations to monitor the counting of votes. Some analysts have pointed out that the phrase “picked like grasshoppers” could be interpreted as a threat of force against voters who refuse to comply, further raising doubts about the fairness of the election. The controversial nature of the statement has only fueled further political tensions as Uganda prepares for what is expected to be a highly contested election.
In defense of his comments, Byabakama explained that the directive was a precautionary measure aimed at preventing disorder, pointing to previous elections where tensions at polling stations led to violent clashes and disruptions. He argued that ensuring voters leave promptly after casting their votes would help avoid these situations, allowing security forces to maintain control and ensure a peaceful election day.
The EC chair also emphasized that the directive is not politically motivated and applies equally to all Ugandans, regardless of their political affiliation. He stressed that the goal is to protect voters and ensure that the election results are determined without interference from unruly crowds or partisan groups. Byabakama reiterated that his primary concern is the peaceful conduct of the elections and the safety of the public.
This warning from Byabakama highlights the increasing political polarization in Uganda as the country prepares for its 2026 elections. Amidst allegations of biased policing, a growing sense of distrust in the political system, and accusations of election interference, the Electoral Commission’s efforts to assert control are viewed by some as an attempt to maintain peace and stability. However, civil society groups have urged the EC to carefully balance the need for security with the protection of citizens’ democratic rights.
As the election approaches, the potential impact of Byabakama’s directive remains uncertain. While it may reduce the likelihood of post-vote violence, critics warn that it could have a chilling effect on voter engagement and scrutiny of the election process. The challenge for the Electoral Commission will be to ensure that order is maintained without infringing upon the rights of voters and election observers, in a nation that is already divided along political lines.
