The Organising Committee of the Soroti City East Member of Parliament Debate has announced a series of restrictive measures aimed at ensuring order, fairness, and decorum during the forthcoming debate. The decision follows incidents of disorder and crowd disturbances observed during previous engagements, which organisers say were largely caused by strategically mobilised and unruly crowds associated with some candidates.
According to the committee, the new measures are intended to safeguard the integrity of the debate and promote a calm, disciplined, and intellectually engaging environment for both candidates and attendees. As part of these arrangements, an entrance fee of UGX 10,000 has been introduced. The committee explained that the fee is designed to regulate crowd size and encourage seriousness among those attending the event.
In addition, heavy security deployment will be enforced at the venue. Security personnel will work closely with the protocol team to ensure strict adherence to the debate rules, with any disruptive individuals removed immediately. The organisers have emphasized a zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct, warning that heckling, whistling, chanting, the use of vuvuzelas, insults, or abusive language will not be permitted under any circumstances.
Seating at the venue will be structured and closely managed to maintain order throughout the proceedings. The committee has also urged candidates to invite only supporters who demonstrate discipline, maturity, and respect for the debate process, noting that the event is intended to be an intellectual exchange of ideas rather than a rally.
Furthermore, the organisers have made it clear that large, unruly, or disruptive crowds will be denied entry to the venue. These measures, they say, are necessary to prevent disruptions and ensure that all candidates are given a fair and equal platform.
The Organising Committee reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the highest standards of order, discipline, and professionalism. It stated that all necessary preparations have been put in place to guarantee a smooth and well-managed debate.
The statement was signed by Peterson HD on behalf of the Tejfoce Debate Organising Committee for the Soroti City East MP Debate, with organisers thanking the public and all candidates for their cooperation.
