More than 100 bodyguards and drivers who provided security and logistical support to the eight presidential candidates in Uganda’s recently concluded 2026 General Election are demanding payment of over Shillings 10 million in unpaid campaign allowances from the Electoral Commission (EC).
The group, drawn from units including the Very Important Persons Protection Unit (VIPPU), Vital Installations Security (VIS) and other police divisions, said they have yet to receive their full allowances despite completing their duties during the high-stakes campaign period.
“We were sourced from tourism, tactical, criminal investigations directorate (CIDs) and counter terrorism units, but we have waited for long without any hope of getting our allowances as assigned,” said James Odong, one of the bodyguards. “It has been two weeks since we ended our assignment and we are suspicious our money might be whisked away by mafias.”
According to those affected, each bodyguard was owed Shs9.72 million based on a daily per diem of Shs90,000, but many report receiving only partial payments. One guard assigned to the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) flagbearer said the EC sent fragmented sums totalling far less than what was expected.
Drivers who escorted the candidates also say they have not been paid, forcing some to rely on EC fuel cards while on the campaign trail and incur personal costs for accommodation and meals.
Police officials contacted for comment acknowledged that the Uganda Police Force does not directly handle payment of campaign allowances, explaining that the responsibility lies with the EC. Commissioner of Police David Manzi reportedly referred the bodyguards to the commission for answers.
Responding to the complaints, EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi said the bodyguards and drivers had not formally submitted claims for their outstanding allowances, adding that complaints should be lodged through the appropriate deployment officers.
“The election period has not ended yet, we also have other workers who are waiting for the commission to pay their enumerations, which we are handling,” he said.
The demand comes in the wake of the January 15, 2026, elections, in which former rebel leader President Yoweri Museveni secured another term amid contested results and heightened political tensions.
The bodyguards and drivers are now calling on the EC to settle the outstanding allowances promptly to recognise their service during the election cycle.
