The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has cautioned politicians and their campaign teams against displaying flags and campaign posters on electricity poles, transformers, or other power assets during the ongoing pre-election period.
The warning follows several trending social media videos showing campaign agents hanging national flags and posters dangerously close to live electricity wires.
According to UEDCL, such actions not only flout safety regulations but also pose life-threatening risks to individuals and communities.
UEDCL’s Head of Corporate and Stakeholder Affairs, Jonan Kiiza, in a statement released on Wednesday, January 7th, 2026, condemned the practice, noting that those involved endanger both themselves and the public.
“These acts are extremely dangerous not only to those hanging or placing them, but to the entire community because this can cause unwarranted power blackouts and cause personal harm/electrocution to anyone who gets in close contact with the energized,” Kiiza said.
He added that the company considers such behavior a violation of Section 87(1) of the Electricity Act, 2022 (as amended), which prohibits interference with electricity supply infrastructure.
Kiiza urged political leaders and the Electoral Commission to strongly discourage their supporters from engaging in such unsafe practices.
However, Kiiza appealed to members of the public to stay away from power lines and avoid carrying out any activities near electricity infrastructure.
UEDCL reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of Ugandans and maintaining uninterrupted electricity supply throughout the election period and beyond.
“Our commitment to maintaining power availability during this election season and beyond is unwavering,” the statement concluded.
As the election season intensifies, UEDCL’s call serves as a timely reminder for all political actors and citizens to prioritize safety over politics.
The company emphasizes that safeguarding electricity infrastructure is a shared responsibility, and adherence to safety guidelines will help prevent power disruptions and protect lives across the country.
