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The Fall of FDC in Teso: What Changed at the Ballot Box — Kanyum MP Simon Peter Opolot Okwalinga Explains

For nearly two decades, Teso was a stronghold of opposition politics. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) dominated elections across the sub-region, presenting itself as a symbol of resistance against the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). From Soroti to Kumi, Bukedea to Ngora, opposition candidates consistently won, often by wide margins. The 2026 elections, however, delivered a dramatic political shift. Several constituencies that were once untouchable by the NRM fell decisively to the ruling party, while prominent opposition figures suffered surprising defeats. At the centre of this transformation is Simon Peter Opolot Okwalinga, re-elected Member of Parliament for Kanyum County. Known to supporters as “The Guardian,” Opolot is credited with weakening and dismantling the opposition’s political machinery in the sub-region. Opposition Stronghold Gives Way Historically, FDC leveraged grievances such as cattle rustling, insecurity, poverty, and the lingering effects of insurgencies like the Uganda People’s Army (UPA) to mobilise voters. Opolot argues that opposition politics eventually became more about fear and propaganda than practical solutions. “For a long time, the opposition thrived on propaganda,” he said. “The biggest claim was that government wanted to grab people’s land. Lies have a lifespan, and eventually truth catches up.” He added that when voters compared claims with reality, they realised that government had not interfered with their land as claimed. The Kanyum Contest The collapse of FDC’s influence was most visible in Kanyum County. Official results show Opolot securing 11,558 votes, comfortably ahead of his competitors. FDC president Patrick Oboi Amuriat received only 3,441 votes, finishing fourth behind independent candidates Orena Vincent (6,018 votes) and Kedi Saul Patrick (4,608 votes). Other candidates included Okanya John Kokas (1,697), Aduba Joel (441), Akabwai James (NUP, 190), and Orion Osman (131). Analysts say the outcome reflected a fragmented opposition, loss of trust in traditional leaders, and growing acceptance of NRM’s development-focused message. From Protest to Performance Opolot recalls that even during the 2021 elections, when Amuriat ran for president, he lost at his own polling station—a sign that opposition influence was waning. “This time, the people spoke clearly—they chose delivery over anger,” he said. Opolot attributes his success to a focus on service delivery, including initiatives in security, education, and livelihoods. He has worked with Gombolola Internal Security Officers (GISOs) to curb illegal livestock movement and criminal activity, improving community trust in government. In education, he highlighted the establishment of a technical school in Kanyum to equip school dropouts with practical skills. Lessons for the Opposition Opolot urged opposition leaders to rethink strategies, stressing that protest politics without delivery no longer resonates with voters. “Noise without service means nothing,” he said. “The people want results, not rhetoric.” He also highlighted ongoing challenges such as corruption and unemployment, calling for wealth declaration, anti-corruption measures, and expanded skilling hubs across the sub-region. A Political Turning Point The 2026 elections mark a profound shift in Teso politics. Opposition figures are losing influence, while NRM-aligned leaders consolidate power. Analysts suggest that Teso voters are increasingly prioritising tangible development and accountability over party loyalty. “The people have seen light,” Opolot concluded. “Leadership is about service. Protest politics without delivery is no longer enough.” Source The post The Fall of FDC in Teso: What Changed at the Ballot Box — Kanyum MP Simon Peter Opolot Okwalinga Explains appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Who is Joseph Jones Ogwal, MP-elect for Dokolo North?

Joseph Jones Ogwal, the Member of Parliament–elect for Dokolo North County, is an environmental, energy and development specialist with more than two decades of experience in Uganda’s infrastructure and natural resource sectors. In his early 50s, Ogwal brings to Parliament a background grounded in technical governance, project management and national development planning. A native of Dokolo North, he says his decision to enter elective politics was influenced by persistent challenges in electricity access, youth unemployment, environmental degradation and gaps in healthcare and education service delivery within the constituency. Professional Background Before joining elective politics, Ogwal served as Manager heading the Environmental Unit at the Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL), where he was responsible for overseeing environmental and social safeguards for national power transmission projects. In that role, he supervised compliance with national regulations and international financing standards, particularly for projects funded by multilateral development partners. Alongside this role, he also worked as an environmental, energy and development consultant, with a focus on environmental safeguards, carbon management and applied research. Prior to joining the electricity transmission sector, Ogwal worked as a senior inspector in municipal water and environment management, and later as a principal inspector in the forestry department, roles that strengthened his experience in regulation, compliance and natural resource governance. He also coordinated wildlife research and monitoring in the Kibale Conservation Area, which comprises four protected areas, supporting conservation planning and capacity building. Energy Sector Experience Ogwal spent more than 16 years in the electricity transmission subsector, working both as a project manager and environmental specialist on high-voltage power infrastructure projects. He was involved in feasibility studies, construction oversight and environmental compliance for the majority of high-voltage transmission lines developed in Uganda during that period, and also contributed to similar studies in Ghana. Colleagues say he played a central technical role in ensuring that power transmission projects attained “bankable status”, a key requirement for financing by institutions such as the World Bank and other international lenders. This process involved rigorous feasibility analysis, environmental and social risk assessment, multiple review cycles and final approval by financiers. Academic and Professional Training Ogwal holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry from Makerere University, obtained in 1999. He later earned a Master’s degree in Ecology, an MBA in Energy and Sustainability, a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Planning and Management from Uganda Management Institute, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Impact Assessment from Nkumba University. He also completed professional training in project management at George Washington University, as well as specialised training in environmental engineering and electrical infrastructure design. Ogwal is a PhD fellow at Makerere University’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, where he completed one year of coursework. Personal Competencies Those who worked with him describe Ogwal as possessing strong oral communication skills and high-level technical writing ability, particularly in feasibility studies, environmental reporting, policy documentation and project design. Parliamentary Focus As MP-elect, Ogwal says his parliamentary priorities will include strengthening oversight of energy projects, promoting climate-smart agriculture, improving rural water and sanitation, expanding electricity access and enhancing sustainable natural resource management. He says his legislative approach will be informed by practical experience within government systems and international development financing frameworks. Source The post Who is Joseph Jones Ogwal, MP-elect for Dokolo North? appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Won Nyaci urges reconciliation, unity after elections in Lango

Lira, Uganda | The Won Nyaci of Lango, Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, has called on cultural and religious leaders in the sub-region to support and comfort communities following the recently concluded elections, warning against post-election tensions. In a congratulatory message issued to election winners, Dr. Odongo Okune said their victory reflected the confidence and trust voters had placed in them, urging leaders to govern with humility and responsibility. He emphasized that elections should promote hope, maturity and unity rather than division, hatred and violence. The Lango cultural leader cautioned political actors against inciting unrest, stressing that voting remains the only legitimate and peaceful means of choosing leaders in a democratic society. He appealed to residents to embrace reconciliation and forgiveness, and to reject acts of violence, intimidation and hate speech that could undermine peace in the region. Quoting former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s words — “Be magnanimous in victory and gracious in defeat” — Dr. Odongo Okune urged contestants and their supporters to accept election outcomes peacefully for the greater good of Lango. He warned that poorly managed victories can breed arrogance and instability, while unresolved electoral losses may inflict long-term social harm within communities. The Won Nyaci also commended the people of Lango for overwhelmingly supporting President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who secured 84.48 percent of the vote in the sub-region. He encouraged elected leaders to engage government institutions proactively to ensure that the region’s political support translates into tangible socio-economic development. Dr. Odongo Okune further praised security agencies for maintaining law and order throughout the electoral process, and lauded media practitioners for what he described as professional and accurate reporting during the polls. Source The post Won Nyaci urges reconciliation, unity after elections in Lango appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Joseph Jones Ogwal Defies Internal Party Divisions to Win Dokolo North Parliamentary Seat

Dokolo, Uganda | Joseph Jones Ogwal has been declared the winner of the Dokolo North County parliamentary race following elections concluded on 15 January 2025, capping a campaign that had earlier been shaped by internal party divisions and intense multi-candidate competition. Ogwal, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer for the 2026–2031 parliamentary term, polled 8,845 votes, narrowly defeating Francis Ojok of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) who came second with 8,607 votes. Alfred Junior Okello of the Democratic Front finished third with 5,543 votes, while the incumbent Member of Parliament, Moses Ogwal Goli, who contested as an Independent, placed fourth with 4,533 votes. Other candidates included Josephine Acen (Independent) with 4,106 votes and Geoffrey Ebyeru of the National Unity Platform (NUP) who garnered 127 votes. Two days before voting, an opinion poll had already pointed to Ogwal as the frontrunner in the Dokolo North contest. The poll, conducted across all 43 parishes in the eight subcounties of the constituency, sampled at least 100 voters per subcounty, bringing the total number of respondents to not less than 800 voters. The exercise was carried out by an independent intelligence team. According to the aggregated findings, a race that had initially attracted six candidates had increasingly tilted in favour of the NRM flag bearer. The poll placed Ogwal at 52.4%, far ahead of his challengers, with Moses Ogwal Goli (Independent) at 13.6%, Alfred Junior Okello (Democratic Front) at 12.8%, Francis Ojok (UPC) at 10.6%, Josephine Acen (Independent) at 8.9%, while Moses Ebyeru (NUP) trailed with 1.8%. The survey indicated that Ogwal’s strongest support was concentrated in rural areas. He commanded 90% support in Okwalongwen Subcounty, followed by Amwoma Subcounty at 75%, while also posting strong leads in Bata Town Council (71%) and Bata Subcounty (50%). Ads However, the race appeared more competitive in urban and semi-urban centres. In Agwata Town Council, Alfred Junior Okello topped the poll with 40%, narrowly ahead of Ogwal at 37%, making it one of the few areas where the NRM candidate did not lead. Similarly, Agwata Subcounty showed strong independent backing, with Moses Ogwal Goli leading at 38%, closely followed by Ogwal at 36%. In Dokolo Subcounty, voter preference was fragmented, with Josephine Acen (Independent) leading at 30%, while Ogwal and Francis Ojok (UPC) were tied at 25% each. Moses Ebyeru (NUP) recorded his highest showing here at 13%. Despite these pockets of competition, the overall trend from the poll suggested that Ogwal maintained a consistent advantage across the constituency a projection that was later reflected in the final election results. The campaign was further shaped by the fallout from the NRM primaries. Two aspirants who had earlier competed with Joseph Jones Ogwal – Alfred Junior Okello and Moses Ogwal Goli later returned to the race under different political arrangements, with Okello crossing to the Democratic Front and Goli contesting as an Independent. The developments split party structures at the grassroots, with some mobilisers openly backing rival candidates, weakening coordinated party campaigning in parts of the constituency. Despite the internal challenges, Ogwal conducted much of his campaign through personal coordinators and volunteer teams, rather than relying heavily on formal party machinery. Political analysts say his manifesto, which focused on service delivery, infrastructure development, youth livelihoods and effective linkage to central government programmes, played a significant role in consolidating voter confidence. While NRM secured Dokolo North, the party suffered defeat in Dokolo South County, where Vincent Opito of UPC defeated incumbent Felix Okot Ogong (NRM). Opito polled 18,024 votes, compared to Okot Ogong’s 11,161, while Egwau Julius of the Democratic Party (DP) obtained 54 votes. In the Dokolo District Woman Member of Parliament race, incumbent Sarah Aguti Nyangkori (UPC) retained her seat after polling 36,720 votes, defeating Janet Adongo Elau (NRM) who garnered 18,659 votes. Other contenders included Anna Okwir Bung (Independent) with 1,541 votes, Ruth Frances Atala (Independent) with 954 votes, and Gloria Akullo (DP) who received 487 votes. Ogwal’s victory has placed him at the centre of political expectations in Dokolo North, with residents and local leaders viewing the legislator-elect as a key figure in restoring the constituency’s profile and pushing for tangible development. Analysts say his ability to unify divided political actors and translate campaign pledges into measurable outcomes will define his performance during the 2026–2031 parliamentary term. Source The post Joseph Jones Ogwal Defies Internal Party Divisions to Win Dokolo North Parliamentary Seat appeared first on Dokolo Post.

NRM’s Ogwal Pulls Ahead Decisively as Polls Signal Clear Advantage in Dokolo North MP Race with 1 Day to Go

Dokolo, Uganda | National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer Joseph Jones Ogwal has maintained a commanding lead in the Dokolo North County parliamentary race, with just two days remaining to voting day, according to the latest opinion poll findings. The opinion poll was conducted across all 43 parishes in the eight subcounties of Dokolo North, sampling at least 100 voters per subcounty, bringing the total number of respondents to not less than 800 voters. The exercise was carried out by an independent intelligence team. The findings indicate that a race which initially attracted six candidates has increasingly tilted in favour of the NRM candidate. Dokolo North Opinion Polls According to the aggregated results, Ogwal leads with 52.4%, placing him far ahead of his rivals. He is followed by Moses Ogwal Goli (Independent) at 13.6%, Alfred Junior Okello (Democratic Front) at 12.8%, Francis Ojok (UPC) at 10.6%, Josephine Acen (Independent) at 8.9%, while Moses Ebyaru (NUP) trails with 1.8%. Ogwal’s strongest showing is recorded in Okwalongwen Subcounty, where he commands 90% support, followed by Amwoma Subcounty at 75%. He also posts comfortable leads in Bata Town Council (71%) and Bata Subcounty (50%), consolidating his dominance across much of the rural electorate. In Adok Subcounty, Ogwal leads with 35%, followed by Alfred Junior Okello at 27% and Moses Ogwal Goli at 21%. The race appears more competitive in urban and semi-urban centres. In Agwata Town Council, Alfred Junior Okello tops the poll with 40%, narrowly ahead of Ogwal at 37%, making it one of the few areas where the NRM candidate does not lead. Similarly, Agwata Subcounty shows strong independent backing, with Moses Ogwal Goli leading at 38%, closely followed by Ogwal at 36%. In Dokolo Subcounty, voter preference is fragmented, Josephine Acen (Independent) leads with 30%, while Ogwal and Francis Ojok (UPC) are tied at 25% each. Moses Ebyaru (NUP) records his highest showing here at 13%. Despite pockets of competition in select subcounties, the overall trend from the opinion poll suggests that Joseph Jones Ogwal maintains a clear and consistent advantage across the constituency, positioning him as the frontrunner as voters prepare to cast their ballots. Political observers note that unless there is a significant shift in voter sentiment in the final days, the NRM candidate is widely expected to maintain his lead when voting takes place in two days’ time. Source The post NRM’s Ogwal Pulls Ahead Decisively as Polls Signal Clear Advantage in Dokolo North MP Race with 1 Day to Go appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Political Tension Escalates in Lira City as Aceng Accuses Amongi of Sponsoring Violence

Lira, Uganda | Political tension in Lira City has intensified after the Minister of Health and Lira City Woman Member of Parliament aspirant, Dr Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, accused her opponent, Hon. Betty Amongi Akena, of orchestrating violence against residents and supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). Speaking during a press briefing held today at Lira Hotel, Dr Aceng expressed deep concern over what she described as escalating acts of political violence that are threatening peace, public health, and the integrity of the ongoing electoral process. Dr Aceng alleged that her campaign rally held yesterday at Lira Police Primary School was attacked by goons she claimed were sent by her opponent to disrupt the event. She said several people sustained physical injuries, while others lost personal property including wallets, mobile phones, and other valuables. According to Aceng, some of the suspects confessed that they had been mobilized by Otak Alele on behalf of Hon. Amongi. She further alleged that the violence did not stop there, adding that later in the night, armed attackers struck Angwetangwet, where eight NRM supporters were reportedly injured using pangas and other dangerous weapons. The victims are currently receiving treatment in hospital. Dr Aceng also raised concern over the case of Afria Bakari, who she said was ignored after reporting the incident to authorities. In response to the insecurity, Dr Aceng advised her supporters to temporarily stop wearing yellow attire, including T-shirts, caps, dresses, and aprons, until the anticipated victory celebrations on the 16th. She claimed that her opponent was disguising hired goons in yellow to falsely portray NRM supporters as the source of the violence. Dr Aceng also accused Hon. Amongi of violating campaign laws by allegedly distributing items such as sugar, soap, and fabrics to voters, which is prohibited under electoral regulations. However, she urged residents to accept the items if offered but exercise wisdom while casting their votes. She further advised residents of Lira City to return home early before dusk to ensure their personal safety, warning that citizens must remain vigilant amid the reported presence of roaming goons. Condemning the violence, Jimmy Awany Cing Malu, a Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) member contesting as an independent candidate for Lira City West MP but supporting Aceng, described the acts as cowardly and unacceptable. He said Aceng’s camp was committed to peaceful campaigning and accused the opposing side of using disguised goons to tarnish NRM’s image. He warned individuals, including one Minyang, against leading violent activities. Meanwhile, Zena Apio Opolot clarified that Dr Aceng’s campaign activities had officially ended, cautioning the public against false reports alleging fresh rallies. She urged residents to stay home, avoid yellow attire, and wait peacefully for victory celebrations on the 16th. The press briefing concluded with renewed calls for calm and peaceful participation in the electoral process as Lira City approaches polling day. Source The post Political Tension Escalates in Lira City as Aceng Accuses Amongi of Sponsoring Violence appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Protect Lives, Respect the Vote, Won Nyaci Odongo Okune Tells Security, Politicians

Lira, Uganda | The Won Nyaci of Lango, Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, has called on security agencies, political leaders and all stakeholders in the Lango subregion to uphold peace and stability ahead of Uganda’s general elections, warning that election-related violence could undermine democracy and endanger lives and property. In a message shared with the media, Dr. Odongo Okune emphasised the need for law and order before, during, and after the elections, noting that peaceful electoral processes are critical for democratic governance and sustainable development in the region. He urged security agencies to act professionally and remain neutral, saying their primary responsibility is to protect citizens and property while preventing violence, intimidation, and political unrest. The cultural leader cautioned that any form of election violence would have serious consequences on public safety and could interfere with the constitutional right of citizens to freely and fairly choose their leaders. Dr. Odongo Okune also appealed to political actors to restrain their supporters from using violence to suppress opponents, urging that Lango should serve as an example of a violence-free region throughout the electoral period. He said elections are temporary and should not be used to create lasting divisions among communities, adding that leaders should unite after the polls to advance Lango’s development agenda, including improving education and health services and promoting socio-economic transformation. The Won Nyaci further highlighted the need to align with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s guidance on poverty eradication, particularly through the four-acre agricultural model. He called on security organs deployed during the elections to work closely with cultural and religious leaders to ensure peaceful polls across the Lango subregion without harming local communities. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister of Lango, Prof. Willy Okullo echoed similar sentiments, urging the Lango community to exercise discipline and avoid conflict and destructive behaviour that could undermine development and social harmony. Addressing the media at the Lango Cultural Centre, Prof. Okullo said that after the elections, all Lango sons and daughters, regardless of political competition, should put aside differences and work together to address shared challenges and promote development in the region. He emphasised that unity and cooperation with the government remain key pillars for progress in Lango. Source The post Protect Lives, Respect the Vote, Won Nyaci Odongo Okune Tells Security, Politicians appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Community in Mourning After Mother Dies in T-Shirt Rush at Soroti Rally

Soroti, Uganda | Asuroi village in Kamuda Parish is in shock after the death of a mother of four during a campaign rally held by Patrick Aeku, the incumbent Member of Parliament and NRM flag bearer for Soroti County. Rose Ajiko, in her early thirties, was trampled on Saturday evening, January 10, 2026, at Aminit Primary School during a rush for yellow campaign t-shirts bearing President Yoweri Museveni’s emblem. She leaves behind her husband, Francis Olanya, and four children, the youngest just two years old. Relatives and neighbours described the tragedy as devastating for the family and the wider community. “This has shaken us all. The children keep asking for their mother, and we don’t know how to console them,” said Sarah Aibo, a relative of the deceased. Eyewitnesses said the rally had been calm until a campaign vehicle arrived distributing t-shirts, triggering a surge of people. Ads “In the chaos, she fell and was trampled. It all happened so fast,” said Emmy Ogonga, another eyewitness. Gabriel Engau, NRM chairperson for Asuroi village and LC1 secretary, said the meeting was peaceful before the distribution. “The vehicle created a sudden rush, and people surged forward,” he said. The tragedy has highlighted the emotional and social toll of political events on families. Community members expressed anger that no political leaders have reached out to console the bereaved family. Moses Olang, District Police Commander of Katine Central Police Station, said officers are taking statements and a postmortem is yet to be conducted. Residents have also drawn comparisons with a July 2025 incident involving a campaign vehicle linked to Aeku, which claimed one life and injured several others, raising questions about repeated risks to communities during rallies. Asuroi residents are now calling for greater attention to the human and social costs of political mobilization, warning that such tragedies leave deep scars on families and the community at large. Source The post Community in Mourning After Mother Dies in T-Shirt Rush at Soroti Rally appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Ssemujju Urges Kira Voters to Back Bobi Wine for President

Kira, Uganda | Kira Municipality Member of Parliament, Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, has urged voters in Kira to support National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi for president after voting for him as their area MP. In a message posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Ssemujju, who is affiliated with the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), appealed to residents to make a strategic choice on polling day. “People of Kira, on the 15th, after voting for me as your MP, go ahead and vote for Robert Kyagulanyi as your President,” Ssemujju wrote. Ssemujju’s remarks signal growing cooperation among opposition figures as they seek to consolidate support against the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) ahead of the polls. The outspoken legislator, who has represented Kira Municipality since 2016, is known for his strong criticism of President Museveni’s government and has previously called for opposition unity to bring about political change in the country. The endorsement is expected to energise Kyagulanyi’s support base in Kira, a constituency widely regarded as an opposition stronghold. Source The post Ssemujju Urges Kira Voters to Back Bobi Wine for President appeared first on Dokolo Post.

UPDF, Police, Prisons Declare Uganda Stable, Secure Ahead of Polls

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. Source The post UPDF, Police, Prisons Declare Uganda Stable, Secure Ahead of Polls appeared first on Dokolo Post.