Propaganda In Dirty Politics: Walter Elakas Camp Dismisses Vandalism Claims As Political Smear

By Swift Reporter 

Toroma County: As political temperatures rise ahead of the Toroma parliamentary polls, a controversy surrounding vandalized campaign posters has sparked sharp reactions, with independent candidate Hon. Walter Elakas firmly distancing himself from allegations he describes as malicious propaganda aimed at tainting his name.

The controversy follows reports of defaced campaign posters in parts of Magoro, Amusia Junction and Amekede, incidents that police are currently investigating after a complaint was lodged at Magoro Police Post. While the vandalism has affected several aspirants, including NRM flag bearer Solomon Ossiya, supporters of Hon. Elakas say attempts to single him out despite the absence of evidence or formal charges are politically motivated and deeply irresponsible.

In a strongly worded statement, allies of Hon. Elakas condemned the destruction of campaign materials in all its forms, emphasizing that vandalism undermines democratic competition and should be addressed strictly through lawful investigations rather than political finger-pointing.

“Dragging Hon. Walter Elakas into this matter through speculation and innuendo amounts to character assassination,” the statement reads. “There is no police charge, no evidence, and no factual basis linking him to these acts. Suspicion must not be confused with truth.”

Police records indicate that one individual, Ooro Cuthbert, admitted to removing some posters, citing obstruction to his business premises. However, investigations are still ongoing, and authorities have cautioned against drawing premature conclusions. The matter has since been forwarded to the District Criminal Investigations Unit (DCIU) for further inquiry.

Observers note that the rush to assign blame—particularly against an independent candidate gaining traction risks inflaming tensions and distracting voters from substantive issues affecting Toroma County. Political analysts warn that such narratives, if left unchecked, could poison the campaign environment and erode public trust in the electoral process.

Supporters of Hon. Elakas argue that his campaign has consistently advocated peaceful engagement, respect for the rule of law, and issue-based politics. They accuse rival camps of exploiting an unfortunate incident to score political points rather than allowing investigations to run their course.

“Democracy is not served by propaganda,” the statement adds. “It is served by ideas, integrity, and respect for due process. Anyone found culpable of vandalism should face the law but not through trial by media or political convenience.”

As the polls draw closer, police have reiterated their call for calm, urging all candidates and supporters to conduct peaceful campaigns and respect electoral laws. For many voters in Toroma, the incident has become a test not just of campaign discipline, but of the commitment of political actors to fairness and democratic values.

With investigations ongoing, voices across the political divide are now calling for restraint, truthfulness, and a renewed focus on the real concerns of the electorate development, service delivery, and accountable leadership rather than unproven allegations and escalating rhetoric.