With just over a month left to the January 2026 general elections, the Uganda Police Force (UPF) has issued a stern warning against escalating acts of violence and non-compliance with campaign guidelines, particularly involving supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP).
In a statement released on Monday, Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba praised Ugandans, the Electoral Commission, security agencies and most political actors for largely adhering to the law, but noted that tensions persist—mainly arising from clashes between security forces and NUP supporters over unauthorised routes, unapproved rally venues and reckless procession conduct.
“It is our duty as UPF to ensure that both sides enjoy their rights and freedoms, and whoever breaches the law is handled appropriately,” Byakagaba said, emphasising the need to balance political expression with the rights of other citizens to go about their daily activities.
Incidents Highlight Security Concerns
Byakagaba detailed several incidents from the ongoing campaigns, including:
October 28, Lira District: NUP supporters allegedly attacked police officers, punctured vehicle tyres, removed a key sensor and stole police property.
October 29, Abim District: A man identified as Edibu Emmanuel was assaulted by individuals said to be part of the NUP candidate’s inner circle.
November 24, Kampala: A procession led by the NUP presidential candidate from the party headquarters to campaign venues in Kawempe turned chaotic as stones were hurled at security personnel, injuring several officers and damaging vehicles. Multiple arrests were made.
November 27, Kayunga District: Police halted a rally after the NUP candidate attempted to campaign beyond the 6pm cutoff time, resulting in crowd dispersal.
November 28, Iganga District: Violence broke out after a campaign event, with stones thrown at officers. Police responded, and one civilian fatally died during the dispersal.
November 7, Mbarara District: A planned operation led to the arrest of several suspects linked to criminal acts across the country.
‘No Elections Without Peace’
The IGP reiterated that electoral violence, incitement, hate speech, defiance of campaign rules, destruction of property, attacks on officers, unauthorised processions and the misuse of artificial intelligence for harmful propaganda will be dealt with “very decisively.”
“We strongly condemn all forms of electoral violence and lawlessness. This will not be tolerated,” he said. “There can never be elections where there is no peace.”
Byakagaba also cautioned political parties against forming parallel security groups to protect candidates, stressing that such responsibilities rest solely with state security agencies.
Call for Responsible Conduct
The police chief urged all stakeholders—including citizens, political parties, candidates, civil society and the media—to exercise their rights peacefully and responsibly as campaigns intensify.
He reaffirmed the UPF’s commitment to protecting the constitutional rights to campaign, vote and participate in the electoral process, but warned that security agencies will enforce the law firmly before, during and after the elections. “Socio-economic transformation and the peace we enjoy must be maintained,” he said. “The laws of this country are not in abeyance.”
