President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged that the electoral process will be protected as Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections, assuring supporters in Buganda that vote rigging will not be tolerated.

Speaking to a large gathering at Kasambya Town Council in Mubende District during his first campaign engagement in the region, Museveni said the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) is committed to ensuring that every vote cast is properly counted and safeguarded.

“No one will be allowed to steal our votes,” the President said, emphasizing that elections must genuinely reflect the will of the people.

Museveni noted that the NRM’s priority going into the polls is to preserve peace and stability, which he described as essential for credible elections and sustainable national development. He reminded residents that past periods of instability weakened democratic participation, arguing that the relative peace achieved under NRM leadership has enabled citizens to freely choose their leaders.

“Without peace, meaningful elections and development are impossible,” he said.

The President also called on citizens to remain alert and actively involved in the electoral process, stressing that protecting the vote requires collaboration between voters and state institutions.

Touching on development issues, Museveni reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, expanding access to electricity and clean water, and boosting household incomes through commercial agriculture and small-scale enterprises.

He urged supporters to reject violence and focus on issues, saying the 2026 elections should be conducted peacefully.

Museveni’s visit to Mubende signaled the beginning of intensified campaign activities in Buganda, a region he described as vital to Uganda’s political stability and economic growth.