The U.S. Embassy in Kampala, Uganda has issued a security alert regarding the primary elections of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), scheduled for July 17, 2025. The elections will determine the party’s Member of Parliament candidates through a unique voting process where voters line up behind their chosen candidate at various village-level polling sites. These sites are often situated in public areas like schools, churches, mosques, and community centers.
Past events related to campaigning, polling, declaration of results, and disputes have occasionally led to violence. Consequently, U.S. government personnel have been advised to return home by 6:00 p.m. on the day of the election results announcements.
The embassy has provided several actions for safety:
- Avoid polling sites and public areas involved in election administration.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Avoid crowds and demonstrations.
- Inform friends and family about your safety.
- Stay aware of your surroundings.
For assistance, contact details for the U.S. Embassy Kampala are provided as well as information from the State Department's Consular Affairs. Individuals are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security and health updates and follow the embassy on social media platforms.