Buganda Kingdom Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga has warned defeated Local Council I (LC1) chairpersons against refusing to hand over office, saying attempts to retain power could trigger unnecessary conflict in communities.
Mayiga also condemned violence and irregularities reported during the recent LC1 village elections, urging candidates and their supporters to respect the will of voters.
He made the remarks on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Bulange Mengo while receiving Buganda Kingdom subjects from Kyadondo, Buddu, Ssingo and Busiro who were participating in the Kabaka’s Luwalo Lwaffe programme.
The Katikkiro urged candidates who lost the elections to accept the results and allow those chosen by residents to assume office.
He said leaders who lack the confidence of the people cannot effectively serve their communities.
“Leadership that is not based on truth and does not have the support of the people cannot produce meaningful results,” Mayiga said.
He further condemned violence witnessed in some parts of the country during the elections, including reports of voters being injured and disputes over the declaration of results.
Mayiga congratulated candidates who won legitimately and challenged them to serve all residents equally, regardless of their political affiliation, religion or tribe.
He urged newly elected village chairpersons to prioritise community security, sanitation and education, while encouraging residents to use their land productively.
According to Mayiga, effective leadership at the village level is critical because it forms the foundation for leadership at higher levels of government.
The LC1 elections were largely held on July 28, with repeat and residual elections conducted in areas where the initial polls could not be completed.
The Electoral Commission described the elections as generally peaceful, although incidents of violence, disruptions and disputes were reported in more than 1,000 villages. Some elections were subsequently postponed or cancelled.
The reported incidents included clashes, injuries and deaths in a few areas.
Mayiga’s warning comes amid reports that some defeated incumbents are resisting the election results and attempting to remain in office despite losing to their challengers.