Police have issued a public warning urging Ugandans to observe the law governing the use of the National Flag, amid growing concern over its widespread and, in some cases, improper display.
Police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma stated that the use of the National Flag is regulated under the National Flag and Armorial Ensigns Act, which clearly outlines what is permitted and what is prohibited.
He emphasised that anyone intending to use the flag must first obtain permission from the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
“There are growing public concerns about the misuse of the Uganda National Flag,” Kituuma said in a statement. “It is important to clarify that the use of the national flag is regulated by law under the National Flag and Armorial Ensigns Act, which sets out what is permitted and what is not.”
He added that many Ugandans are either unaware of or ignore the legal requirements surrounding the flag’s use.
“Ugandans should know that there is a law which guides the use of the national flag. Anyone who wishes to use the flag requires prior permission from the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs,” Kituuma said.
The police caution comes at a time when the national flag has become increasingly visible across the country, with many citizens displaying it as a symbol of patriotism, particularly in public gatherings and political spaces.
The warning has sparked mixed reactions from civil society figures and the public.
Hellen Seku, the Commissioner, National Secretariat for Patriotism Corp (NSPC), State House and Private Secretary to the President on Youth Affairs, described the misuse of the flag as troubling, noting that the law already provides clear guidance. “Misusing the National Flag is disturbing. The Flag and Emblems Act explains how the National Flag should be used,” she said.
However, governance and human rights advocate Dr Sarah Bireete urged authorities not to politicise the issue, arguing that citizens have a constitutional right to participate in national processes.
“People should stop creating unnecessary drama around the usage of the National Flag,” Dr Bireete said. “Elections and campaigns are national functions, and participation of citizens is a sovereign right under Article 1 of the Constitution. Let us stop majoring in minors.”
The National Flag and Armorial Ensigns Act outlines specific conditions for displaying, reproducing, or altering the national flag, with penalties for misuse. Police say enforcement will continue, even as public debate grows over balancing patriotism, political expression, and respect for national symbols.
