Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has commended the Joint Anti-Terrorism Task Force (JATT) for its work, despite mounting criticism over its recent operations.
This week, JATT operatives—many clad in dark masks—sparked controversy after videos emerged showing them confronting National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters and journalists with what critics described as “heavy-handed tactics” during the Kawempe North MP by-election campaigns.
As concerns grew over the unit’s identity and mandate, Gen Muhoozi defended JATT’s role, asserting that it remains an integral part of Uganda’s security apparatus.
“Who are they?? They are Ugandan security, and they are doing a GREAT job!” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Controversy surrounding JATT operations
Established under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2002, JATT was originally formed to combat threats posed by terrorist groups, particularly in response to the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency in northern Uganda. The unit comprises personnel from various security agencies, including the Internal Security Organization (ISO) and the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI).
However, JATT’s deployment in an electoral exercise has sparked intense debate, with some legislators questioning its appropriateness in handling election-related matters.
“Since when did elections become terrorism that you must deploy JATT?” asked Kira Municipality MP Ssemujju Nganda. “The Leader of Opposition singled out the journalist, but the bigger issue is using JATT in elections. That is what the government must answer.”
Lawmakers expressed particular concern over reports of JATT operatives roughing up journalists and supporters of NUP candidate Elias Nalukoola.
The Minister of State for Trade, Industries, and Cooperatives, David Bahati, acknowledged the concerns, assuring that the government would investigate the conduct of security forces during the by-election. “Security agencies are meant to protect citizens, not harm them. We will visit the journalist and take necessary action,” Bahati said.
The controversy surrounding JATT’s involvement in civilian political affairs continues to fuel debate, with human rights activists and opposition figures calling for a review of security deployments in electoral processes.
