President Museveni is set to speak to the nation about security matters today. The Presidential Press Unit (PPU) has also stated that he will address other important national issues.
The PPU informed the public about President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s address, scheduled for 8 pm today, in a statement released yesterday.
The President’s address follows recent news from the Uganda Police Force that they discovered and safely disposed of six improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Kampala City. This discovery led to a terror alert being issued on Monday, urging the public to remain vigilant. Additionally, the police and army have arrested 13 individuals, while the search continues for four members of a suspected terror group.
Solomon Asiimwe, a security expert and International Relations lecturer at Nkumba University, expressed concerns. He questioned why such threats exist, especially if the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) is believed to be behind these incidents while the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) is engaged in DR Congo fighting the ADF.
Mr. Asiimwe stressed that as the head of state, the President has a responsibility to ensure Uganda’s safety and build public confidence in the security forces. He also highlighted the importance of the President’s guidance in intelligence operations.
Acknowledging the intelligence’s efforts in addressing threats without causing harm, Mr. Asiimwe emphasized that the President should clarify how Ugandans should cooperate with the security forces. He also urged the President to alleviate any fear that may exist between the people and security forces, making it easier for citizens to report suspicious objects or individuals.