Makerere University has barred physical campaigning in the guild presidential race, blocking the tense face-off that had been expected on Tuesday at Nalika Lane in Kikoni.
The directive was issued by the Office of the Dean of Students in a letter dated April 7, 2026, after concerns grew over rival mobilisation events planned by the two main candidates, Gracious Kadondi and former Miss Uganda Hannah Karema.
The two camps had announced separate events at the same venue on the same day, raising fears of possible clashes among supporters. Kadondi, who is linked to the opposition National Unity Platform, had publicised a “Street Jam” at Nalika Lane with artistes including King Saha, Nubian Li, Dax Vibez, Kabako and Nina Roz. Karema had also announced her own event at the same venue, branded “Retake yebinyanya nyanya”, with performers such as Suuna Ben, Sheebah Karungi and B2C.
In the letter, Dean of Students Dr Winifred Kabumbuli reminded students that under the Makerere University Students’ Guild Statute, 2022, student elections are supposed to be conducted virtually unless the University Council decides otherwise.
She said the university had observed that some candidates and their supporters were organising campaign concerts and gatherings outside the university, especially in Kikoni.
She stressed that all campaign activities must be conducted online and that physical rallies, processions, concerts and other gatherings aimed at mobilising support, whether inside or outside the university, are not allowed.
Kabumbuli also said the university had received credible reports indicating that physical mobilisation in Kikoni could turn violent and threaten the safety of students and the surrounding community.
She urged students to obey the electoral rules and work with university security and the Electoral Commission.
The letter warned that any student or group found violating the regulations would face disciplinary action, while security personnel had been instructed to enforce compliance and handle any unauthorised gatherings. The university’s intervention follows earlier unrest in the same race.
