The Inspector General of Police, Abas Byakagaba, has appointed senior officers to lead electoral policing in nine regions across Uganda as part of efforts to ensure a secure and peaceful electoral process ahead of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries scheduled for Thursday, July 17, 2025, and the forthcoming general elections.

The appointments, announced in a media briefing at Police Headquarters on Wednesday July 16, 2025 are part of the security measures to coordinate operations and promote order throughout the electoral period.

According to Police Spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke, the newly appointed zonal commanders include AIGP Kafeero Moses Kabugo for the Busoga Zone (Jinja), covering Busoga North, Busoga East, Kiira, and Sezibwa.

AIGP Tanui Stephen will oversee the Northern Zone (Gulu), responsible for Aswa West, Aswa East, West Nile, and North West Nile. In the Karamoja Zone (Moroto), CP Lawot Patrick will cover Mt. Moroto, Kidepo, Elgon, Sipi, Bukedi South, and Bukedi North. CP Nkore Paul will handle the Kyoga Zone (Soroti), covering North, East, and South Kyoga.

CP Maate Godfrey Bolingo has been deployed to the Central Zone (Masaka), responsible for Masaka West, Masaka East, Wamala, and Katonga. CP Muluya Moses will command the Albertine Zone (Hoima), covering Albertine South, Albertine North, and the Savannah region.

CP Ecega Richard will take charge of the Kampala Metropolitan Zone (Kampala), covering KMP North, KMP South, and KMP East. CP Kulaigye Hillary will oversee the South Western Zone (Mbarara), covering Rwizi, Kigezi, and Greater Bushenyi, while CP Namuwoza Dennis will lead the Rwenzori Zone (Fort Portal), overseeing Rwenzori East and West.

On Monday, authorities revealed that they have been closely monitoring the electoral process across the country and deploying the necessary security measures to ensure a calm, incident-free exercise.

“We have observed heightened tension among some political actors and their supporters,” Police said.

IGP Byakagaba assured commanders on the ground of full institutional support, provided they operate within the confines of the law. He emphasized the need for neutrality, professionalism, and strict adherence to legal standards in managing election-related security.

“Firearms are strictly prohibited at tally centres. Candidates are only allowed to come with four persons. This habit of mobilising crowds to overwhelm the process will not be tolerated,” he warned.

He further urged all political actors and citizens to uphold peace and fully respect the electoral laws and guidelines, warning that violations would be firmly addressed.

“The creation of these zones is intended to ensure a peaceful electoral process during both the primaries and general elections,” the police statement noted.

The Uganda Police Force reiterated its commitment to maintaining a level playing field and ensuring that all candidates and voters participate in a safe, lawful, and transparent electoral environment.