UEDCL warns political agents against hanging posters, flags on electricity lines

As Uganda gears up for the 2026 general elections, the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has issued a stern warning to political actors and their agents to stop displaying campaign posters, flags, and other materials on electricity infrastructure.

The company cites severe safety risks, including potential electrocutions and power outages, that could endanger lives and disrupt services.

In a press release issued this morning, UEDCL highlighted the growing trend of such practices, fueled by viral social media videos showing individuals climbing utility poles to hang national flags and posters near high-voltage power lines.

These actions, according to the company, not only violate safety protocols but also contravene Section 87(1) of the Electricity Act 2022, as amended.

Jonan Kiiza, Head of Corporate and Stakeholder Affairs at UEDCL, emphasized the dangers in the statement: “These acts are extremely dangerous not only to those hanging or placing them, but to the entire community because they can cause unwarranted power blackouts and cause personal harm/electrocution to anyone who gets in close contact with the energized lines.”

The warning comes amid a surge in patriotic displays during the pre-election period, where national flags have become symbols in political campaigns.

A recent viral video on Social Media shows a person in a safety vest attaching Ugandan flags to what appear to be electricity poles, illustrating the risky behavior that has caught the company’s attention. Similar incidents have been reported in the past, with UEDCL issuing comparable advisories in 2025 to prevent damage to infrastructure.

UEDCL has called on political leaders, candidates, and the Electoral Commission to denounce these practices and encourage safer alternatives for campaigning.

The company stressed the importance of avoiding work near or beneath power lines to prevent life-threatening situations and unnecessary outages.

“To prevent life-threatening situations and unnecessary power outages, UEDCL further encourages the public to avoid any work near or beneath power lines,” the release stated.

This is not the first time such warnings have been issued. In June 2025, UEDCL discouraged political aspirants from using electricity poles as billboards, noting that it could lead to accidents and infrastructure damage.

Similarly, in September 2025, the company reiterated its stance, urging campaign teams to prioritize safety.

As the election season intensifies, UEDCL reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining reliable power availability and protecting its assets. The public is advised to report any such violations to the company’s toll-free lines: 0800285285, 0800385385, or 0800203088.