Talib Ahmed Bensouda, leader of UNITE and presidential flagbearer of Coalition 2026, has reported alleged acts of vandalism targeting his campaign property, including billboards, as he called for a peaceful election ahead of the December 5 presidential polls.

Mr Bensouda said the incidents began on Wednesday night and continued into Thursday morning, with campaign materials reportedly damaged.

In a statement, he also reported that an individual had allegedly entered the Bakoteh dumpsite, deliberately started a fire at its centre and fled the scene.

He warned that the reported incident could endanger residents of Bakoteh and surrounding communities, particularly those exposed to smoke from fires at the waste disposal site.

“To those responsible for these acts, I say this: You are only endangering the public, particularly the residents of Bakoteh, and doing nothing to advance the cause of your candidate,” he said.

The Coalition 2026 flagbearer renewed his appeal for peaceful political competition, saying acts of vandalism and intimidation would not distract him or his movement from their campaign.

“You cannot intimidate me. We will not be distracted. We remain committed to a peaceful, free and fair election,” he said.

The reported fire at the Bakoteh dumpsite has also drawn attention to the environmental and public safety concerns surrounding the facility, which has experienced previous fire outbreaks.

However, Bensouda did not identify the alleged perpetrators or provide evidence linking the reported incidents to any particular political party or candidate.

He also did not indicate whether the incidents had been formally reported to the police.

The incidents come as political parties and candidates intensify their activities ahead of the December 5 presidential election.

By Adama Makasuba