A video circulating widely on social media has caused public anger after Maj. Emma Kuteesa, a serving Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officer and President Museveni’s coordinator of “Ghetto Affairs”, was heard making threatening remarks about businesses and individuals displaying the Uganda national flag.
In the video, which is spoken in Luganda, Maj. Kuteesa is seen addressing a group of youths who identify themselves as members of what he calls “Ghetto Structures.”
He warns that any business or office found displaying the Uganda flag would be targeted, broken into, and robbed. “Any business or office found displaying the Uganda national flag in their premises will be targeted, broken into, and robbed.”
In another clip linked to the same meeting, a youth who is handed a microphone announces that from midnight on January 1, 2026, anyone found carrying the Uganda flag would be attacked and beaten.
The footage was shared by National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, who strongly condemned the statements.
Bobi Wine described the remarks as illegal and dangerous, accusing Maj. Kuteesa of inciting violence and intimidation against ordinary citizens.
“These threats and actions are illegal,” Bobi Wine said, calling on Ugandans to reject and resist intimidation while continuing to proudly display the national flag as a symbol of unity and love for the country.
The Uganda flag is a protected national symbol under the law, and threats or acts of violence linked to its display raise serious legal and security concerns. As of now, there has been no official response from the Uganda Police Force, the UPDF, or the government regarding the remarks attributed to Maj. Kuteesa.
The incident comes at a time of heightened political tension ahead of the 2026 general elections, with increasing reports of confrontations, strong rhetoric, and mobilisation activities linked to political actors.
Major Emma Kuteesa is an active-duty officer in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) currently serving as the Presidential Coordinator for Ghetto Affairs under the State House. Throughout 2025, Maj Kuteesa has been a key figure in managing “Ghetto SACCOs” and youth mobilisation initiatives, frequently appearing alongside high-ranking officials like Brig. Gen. Christopher Ddamulira to provide progress updates directly to President Museveni.
Many Ugandans online have expressed shock and concern, calling for urgent investigations and clear action to ensure the safety of citizens and respect for national symbols.
