The 92nd Guild presidential debate at Makerere University was abruptly stopped on Thursday after clashes erupted between supporters of rival candidates, forcing organizers to suspend the event.
The disruption occurred shortly after Hannah Karema, one of the candidates, concluded her speech. Supporters from opposing camps including backers of Gracious Kadondi, aligned with the National Unity Platform (NUP) began shouting and pushing each other, escalating into physical scuffles that security struggled to contain.
Maureen Owomugisha, chairperson of the Makerere University Electoral Commission, confirmed that the debate would be rescheduled once the situation stabilizes, emphasizing that student safety is the top priority.
The guild elections at Makerere are a key democratic tradition, providing a platform for candidates to present their visions to the student body. Both Karema and Kadondi had planned to outline policies on student welfare, campus facilities, and leadership reforms during the debate.
However, the tensions between their supporters reflect growing intensity in campus politics, mirroring the competitive and sometimes polarized environment of Uganda’s national political scene.
The university has not yet announced a new date for the rescheduled debate. The guild elections are expected to proceed in the coming weeks, with all registered students eligible to cast their votes.
