As Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections, the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has cautioned political actors and their supporters against placing campaign materials on electricity installations, warning that the practice poses serious safety and service risks.
UEDCL says hanging posters, flags, or other campaign items on power poles and near high-voltage lines exposes individuals and the wider public to dangers such as electrocution, equipment damage, and unplanned power outages.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the power distributor noted a rising number of incidents, largely driven by viral social media content showing people climbing electricity poles to mount national flags and political posters close to live power lines.
The company said these actions breach established safety standards and violate Section 87(1) of the Electricity Act 2022, as amended.
Jonan Kiiza, UEDCL’s Head of Corporate and Stakeholder Affairs, said the practice endangers not only those directly involved but entire communities.
“These actions are extremely hazardous. They can result in electrocution and cause avoidable power interruptions, putting lives at risk and disrupting essential services,” Kiiza said.
The warning comes amid heightened political activity, with national flags increasingly being used as campaign symbols during the pre-election period. A recently circulated video showing an individual in a reflective vest fixing Ugandan flags onto what appear to be electricity poles has drawn fresh attention to the issue.
UEDCL noted that similar incidents have occurred in the past, prompting repeated advisories. The company issued comparable warnings in 2025 after cases of damage to power infrastructure linked to campaign activities.
The utility has urged political leaders, candidates, and the Electoral Commission to publicly discourage the practice and promote safer methods of campaigning.
UEDCL also advised members of the public to keep away from power lines and avoid any activity near or beneath them to prevent fatal accidents and service disruptions.
As election activities intensify, the company reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring reliable electricity supply and safeguarding its infrastructure. Members of the public are encouraged to report violations through UEDCL’s toll-free lines: 0800285285, 0800385385, or 0800203088.
