Alebtong Deputy RDC Lutwama Warns of Arrests Over Poll Disruption Ahead of Ajuri Re-run

Security agencies in Alebtong District have arrested several suspects over alleged attempts to sabotage the forthcoming parliamentary re-run in Ajuri County, as authorities warned against interference with the electoral process.

The Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Alebtong, Mathias Lutwama, said the arrests follow intelligence reports indicating that criminally inclined individuals have been mobilising residents to boycott the vote and inciting unrest ahead of the re-run scheduled for Wednesday, January 27, 2026.

The Electoral Commission ordered the re-run under Section 12(1)(a) of the Electoral Commission Act, citing irregularities at 18 polling stations in Awei Sub-county and Abako Parish.

Speaking to journalists on Sunday, Lutwama said investigations had revealed that some of the suspects were allegedly brought into the district from outside Alebtong, raising concerns over organised attempts to destabilise the electoral exercise.

“We are dealing with deliberate acts aimed at undermining a lawful electoral process. Those involved will face the law,” Lutwama said.

He added that suspects are being investigated for incitement to violence and insurrection, offences punishable under Section 21 of the Penal Code Act, noting that more arrests are expected as operations continue.

Security agencies, including the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), have since intensified deployments in the affected areas to deter disruption and ensure compliance with the law.

Lutwama said the security presence is intended to protect voters and election officials, not to intimidate the electorate, and urged residents to cooperate with authorities.

“Voters should report suspicious activity and turn up to vote without fear. Security is in place to enforce the law and maintain order,” he said.

The parliamentary re-run will be conducted in the affected polling stations only, with the rest of the constituency results remaining unchanged.