Secretary of State Pompeo. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.
In a statement released by the embassy the United States says there will be consequences for thoe responsible for election-related violence or for undermining the democtratic process. On October 14, the Ugandan military and police raided the offices of presidential contendor Robert Kyagulanyi, a.k.a. Bobi Wine, and violently arrested scores of his supporters.
The U.S. Mission To Uganda released the following statement about Uganda’s upcoming 2021 elections.
The United States has a broad and strong partnership with Uganda and its people. Annually, the United States government invests $1 billion in Ugandan communities to promote economic growth and employability, improve health and education, uphold democratic values, and strengthen security.
The goal of U.S. assistance is to build a future in which every Ugandan has an opportunity to achieve their full potential and a voice in how their country is governed.
Uganda’s upcoming elections have important significance for the country’s democratic development and give expression to the will of the people.
The United States government reaffirms unequivocally that it does not support any specific candidate or party in Uganda’s upcoming elections. The United States supports the democratic process itself. As Secretary Pompeo recently stated, we are committed to supporting free, fair, inclusive elections. This includes ensuring the safety of all candidates, respect for the rule of law, and the impartiality of the authorities in charge of managing the elections.
The United States, along with other democratic countries, will pay close attention to actions of individuals and organizations who interfere in the democratic process or instigate violence against the civilian population before, during, or after the elections. We will not hesitate to consider consequences for those found to be responsible for election-related violence or undermining the democratic process.
Delivering a free, fair, inclusive, and peaceful election is vital to Uganda’s democracy and international reputation as a strong and stable regional leader. We call on all political parties, candidates, and supporters to promote a peaceful and transparent electoral process. We support those working to achieve that goal.
The United States remains committed to working in partnership with Uganda to strengthen its democratic institutions, ensure freedom of expression, and promote an open political environment.
