Babalanda Removes Jinja RDC, Deputy Over LC1 Poll Violence

[Archival Sense]

Hon. Milly Babalanda (Photo courtesy of the Daily Express)

Minister for the Presidency Milly Babalanda has removed Jinja Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Ahmed Kateregga and his deputy, Hassan Kasibante, from their positions, following the deaths of two people during the Local Council 1 (LC1) elections in Jinja District.

Babalanda said the two officials had been withdrawn because the killings occurred under their leadership as the district’s security heads. She further criticised the police response, saying an officer shot two people in Jinja, despite similar incidents being managed elsewhere in the country without loss of life.

The minister, who is also the Budiope West legislator in Buyende District, expressed regret over the death of Fred Kalulu, 19, who was shot at Buwenge Progressive Academy polling station on July 28, 2026, during the election of the LC1 chairperson for Kabi Zone in Kamwanyi Ward, Buwenge Town Council.

Kalulu was among residents at the polling station when the incident occurred.

Another resident, Latib Ikaali, 23, a degree student at Kampala International University’s Bushenyi branch, also sustained bullet injuries. He later succumbed to his injuries upon arrival at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital.

Babalanda delivered a condolence contribution of Shs10 million from President Yoweri Museveni to each of the bereaved families. Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba also contributed Shs5 million to each family.

The minister appealed to Security Minister Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jim Muhwezi and Byakagaba to ensure that police and other security agencies conduct themselves professionally during the remaining elections, particularly the forthcoming polls for parish leaders.

“This time round, I urge the police and sister security agencies to work closely with the Resident City/District Commissioners, who are the heads of security in their various areas, to ensure that the remaining polls are concluded peacefully,” Babalanda said.

She warned against a repeat of what she described as a regrettable incident, saying leaders and security agencies must learn from what happened in Jinja and ensure that subsequent polls are conducted without violence.

Babalanda said concerns had increasingly been raised about the conduct of security personnel during elections, with some officers accused of taking sides and responding with force when residents challenge their actions.

“There are many voices regarding the conduct of security personnel during elections. This might be a big challenge that whenever residents go to the polls, their own security meant to protect them and their properties resorts to brutalising them,” she said.

She called on Muhwezi and the police leadership to ensure that security operatives are properly guided to remain professional and impartial while carrying out their duties.

“I urge you to do your work professionally by not taking sides. Leave people to make their choices and celebrate as you give them security,” Babalanda said.