Ugandan Musician A Pass Alleges Assault by Men in Army Uniform Near Polling Station on Election Day
Popular Ugandan singer A Pass, whose real name is Alexander Bagonza, has come forward with claims of being brutally assaulted on January 15 during the country’s presidential and parliamentary elections, sustaining visible injuries to his back and arms.
In a video posted to his social media accounts, the artist displayed the marks and bruises he says resulted from the attack, which he described as unprovoked and carried out by three men—two dressed in army uniforms and one in civilian clothing.
A Pass recounted that the incident occurred just 50 meters from the polling station where he had cast his vote. “50 meters away from the polling station, and they ambushed me. I didn’t see them coming; three men, two in army uniform and one casually dressed,” he shared in the video caption and accompanying statements.
The musician suggested the assailants may have mistaken him for a “foot soldier”—a term sometimes used in political contexts to refer to militant or opposition supporters—possibly due to his distinctive dreadlocks. He emphasized that the beating happened immediately after he voted, with no apparent prior interaction or provocation.
Uganda’s recent elections took place under heavy security measures, including a nationwide internet shutdown, amid reports of heightened tensions and isolated incidents of violence. Authorities have not yet publicly commented on A Pass’s allegations, and no arrests or official investigations into the specific incident have been confirmed.
The singer’s post has sparked concern among fans and observers about voter safety and the role of security forces during the electoral process. A Pass, known for his contributions to Uganda’s music scene as a songwriter and performer, has not indicated whether he plans to pursue formal legal action.
This incident adds to broader discussions about the conduct of the polls, with various stakeholders calling for accountability and transparency in addressing any reported irregularities or violence.