As Uganda heads into its election season, some candidates are turning to unconventional methods to gain an edge. In Eastern Uganda, Rosie Mukite, a witch doctor, says she has seen a noticeable increase in visits from political hopefuls.

Kampala

With Uganda's election season underway, there has been a reported increase in political candidates seeking the services of witch doctors. Rosie Mukite, a witch doctor in eastern Uganda, notes a surge in visits from hopeful politicians looking for a supernatural advantage in the upcoming elections. Witchcraft remains a visible part of Ugandan society, with advertisements for such services common, especially during election periods.

However, not all candidates support these practices. Some, like Catholic parliamentary candidate Peace Halayi, have openly rejected the use of rituals, instead relying on their religious beliefs. While the use of witch doctors is widespread, few politicians admit to it publicly due to concerns about public perception.

Uganda’s election season sparks supernatural surge

As Uganda gears up for election season, candidates are doing whatever it takes to stand out. Rosi, a witch doctor in eastern Uganda, says she has seen a rise in visits from political hopefuls seeking a supernatural edge. When a person comes and asks me if they will go through or fail, I normally give them some medicine so that they can win the election and their opponent will not go through. There are many people coming now because of the election season. Witchcraft is common in Uganda. In Kampala, it's easy to spot adverts from witch doctors offering to catch thieves, bring back lost lovers and now help politicians to win the 2026 elections. In an election period, nobody tells with certainty if they are winning an election. So whether it is at the top topmost, we cannot rule out that people make a contact here and there. At least they have conduct to the witch doctor, irrespective of the offices, yes. Not everyone supports the use of witchcraft in Uganda, where Christianity remains dominant. Peace Halayi, a Catholic candidate running for parliament, says she rejected pressure from supporters urging her to perform rituals they believe could boost her chances of winning. So me, I do not believe in the whole other perception of maybe going for witchcraft, go ahead of your opponents or anything. I believe in Christianity, so that is what I focus on most, praying to God, fasting, knowing that definitely a breakthrough will come. Some witch doctors prefer the term traditional healers. While many politicians are believed to use their services, few admit it, fearing public backlash or ridicule.

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