Kampala, Uganda | Senior security officials have reassured Ugandans that the country remains stable, secure, and fully functional as it heads into the electoral period, emphasizing that security agencies are prepared to safeguard peace, public order, and the democratic process.
The Chief Political Commissar of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Maj. Gen. Henry Masiko said Uganda is stable, with the government and security forces firmly in control of the situation.
He added that the State remains fully operational, security agencies are on high alert, and national borders are secure.
Maj. Gen. Masiko described the coming electoral period as a critical phase in Uganda’s democratic journey, noting that democracy remains relatively young in the country’s national life.
He said democratic practice at independence was limited, but that Uganda has experienced steady growth and consolidation of democracy since 1986.
He emphasized that the UPDF operates under a clear constitutional mandate to protect and preserve Uganda’s sovereignty while ensuring that power belongs to the people, who must exercise their democratic rights peacefully and responsibly.
He reassured the public that the UPDF remains vigilant as a people’s force committed to protecting citizens as they exercise their constitutional rights, adding that national safety requires constant preparedness.
Uganda Police Force spokesperson ACP Rusoke Kituuma said Uganda is not at a crossroads and explained that the electoral process is governed by clear laws, guidelines, and defined institutional roles, with every stakeholder bearing responsibility for its success.
He said the Uganda Police Force remains the lead agency for election security and is mandated to provide a mature, safe, and stable environment to allow the electoral process to proceed peacefully and successfully.
ACP Kituuma added that threats vary in severity and require close coordination among all security agencies, particularly to protect citizens and secure vital installations across the country.
Uganda Prisons Service spokesperson SCP Frank Baine said the Army, Police, and Prisons are key pillars of the State and routinely work together under the National Security Council to safeguard national security.
He said the Prisons Service has adequate capacity and readiness to reinforce security whenever called upon.
SCP Baine emphasized that Uganda has a legitimate government with the responsibility to manage a peaceful and orderly transition through democratic processes, demonstrating institutional stability and capability.
He cautioned against acts that threaten peace and public order, noting that law enforcement agencies are prepared to act firmly within the law to protect citizens and national stability.
He further revealed that prison officers have been enlisted as election constables at the request of the Inspector General of Police to support the electoral process.
He added that the Uganda Prisons Service plays an active role in maintaining law and order alongside sister security agencies to combat crime and ensure public safety.
UPDF Acting Defence Public Information Officer Col. Chris Magezi said threats to Uganda’s security do not always originate externally and explained that when threats arise internally, the UPDF is constitutionally mandated to safeguard the country’s sovereignty.
Col. Magezi also highlighted the UPDF’s contribution to national development through initiatives such as the Engineering Brigade, the National Enterprise Corporation, and Operation Wealth Creation.
He said elections often heighten tension, making it necessary for the UPDF to reassure citizens of their safety.
Security officials said that elections are carefully coordinated, with representation from all security agencies to ensure a safe and orderly process.
They added that District Security Councils, composed of all relevant security agencies, have been established across the country to maintain peace and stability throughout the electoral period.
Maj. Gen. Masiko reiterated that the Constitution provides that all power belongs to the people, who exercise that power through regular, free, and fair elections.
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