Joseph Isangura
Survivors of violence linked to the October 29, 2025 General Election are set to receive professional psychological support, as the national commission investigating the unrest acknowledges the deep and lasting trauma suffered by victims during and after the polls.
The commission, which is conducting public hearings across the country, said many of those affected by the violence continue to live with serious physical injuries and emotional distress. In response, it plans to link victims with qualified mental health professionals, including psychologists and trauma counsellors, to help them cope with the long-term consequences of what they experienced.
During recent hearings, several victims gave emotional testimonies detailing how their lives were abruptly changed by the violence. Some described being shot during confrontations, leaving them with permanent injuries and, in some cases, lifelong disabilities. Others spoke of losing their ability to work or provide for their families, not only because of physical harm but also due to persistent psychological pain.
Commission members noted that while visible injuries are often easier to recognise, the emotional wounds carried by survivors are just as serious. Many victims, they said, are struggling with fear, anxiety, and recurring memories of the violence. Mental health specialists explain that such symptoms are commonly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, especially among individuals exposed to gun violence and politically charged unrest.
The commission stressed that offering psychosocial care is not an act of goodwill, but a necessary step toward justice and national healing. By addressing trauma directly, it hopes to restore dignity to victims and help communities recover from divisions caused by the unrest. Officials added that untreated psychological harm can fuel anger, fear, and mistrust, making reconciliation far more difficult.
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Election-related unrest has become a growing concern in many democracies worldwide. Experts point out that election violence often leaves behind scars that last long after ballots are counted and results declared. In many cases, victims are left to cope on their own, with little access to specialised care or long-term support.
Human rights observers following the hearings have welcomed the commission’s focus on mental health, describing it as a victim-centred approach that reflects international best practice. They argue that accountability for violence must go hand in hand with support for those harmed, including access to counselling, rehabilitation, and social assistance. Such measures, they say, are closely tied to the broader protection of human rights in democratic processes.
As the inquiry continues, the commission expects more victims to come forward and share their experiences. Civil society groups have encouraged survivors who are still hesitant to testify to do so, assuring them that their voices matter and that their stories will contribute to meaningful reform.
The commission’s final report is expected to include recommendations aimed at preventing future violence, improving the conduct of security forces during elections, and strengthening safeguards for civilians. Observers say the true measure of success will lie in how these recommendations are implemented, particularly those addressing victim support.
