The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have commenced patrols in Kampala today, citing the need to deter possible election-related violence following statements by opposition leaders and supporters warning of unrest if election results do not go their way.
UPDF spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi said the deployment, being carried out jointly with the Uganda Police Force, should not cause public alarm and is aimed at guaranteeing safety during the election period.
“Our objective is to ensure that everyone is safe and assured. Public and private property will be kept safe and secure, and any cases of criminality or threats to public order will be dealt with promptly and in full compliance with the laws of Uganda,” Col. Magezi said.
He noted that security agencies are taking seriously threats of violence and chaos made by some political actors and their supporters, particularly statements from National Unity Platform (NUP) leaders and supporters suggesting unrest if they are not declared winners.
NUP party president Robert Kyagulanyi, commonly known as Bobi Wine, and some of his supporters have in recent weeks warned of “action,” “defiance,” and mass protests should the electoral process, in their view, not reflect their expectations. Security agencies say such statements risk inciting violence and undermining public order.
Col. Magezi emphasized that the UPDF will not tolerate any attempts to disrupt peace or intimidate citizens during or after the elections.
“We do not take threats of violence lightly. Anyone found engaging in criminal acts or attempting to destabilize the country will be dealt with according to the law,” he said.
The UPDF added that the patrols are preventive in nature and are meant to deter lawlessness, protect lives and property, and ensure that the electoral process proceeds peacefully.
Security agencies have urged all political actors and their supporters to exercise restraint, respect the law, and resolve any grievances through established legal channels rather than violence.
