Uganda’s Police has pledged to enforce public order warning political actors to avoid violence but instead exercise restraint as the nation enters the election campaign period.
Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Kituuma Rusoke, speaking at a security press briefing on October 6th, 2025, at Naguru Police Headquarters, said that the Police will carry out their duties strictly within the confines of the law and use force only as a last resort.
For a long time, officials have specifically warned against the use of unauthorized youth brigades, known as “egaali,” which have been used to intimidate opponents and disrupt events. The police have vowed to arrest those involved and prosecute candidates who deploy these groups.
Kituuma urged all Ugandans, including political actors and supporters, to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could disrupt peace.
“We appeal to you not to look for trouble because it is in our best interest to all of us so that we have a peaceful election period,” he said.
In July 2025, the police created nine electoral policing zones to boost security during the 2026 elections. The zones, with appointed commanders, are designed to oversee election-related activities across the country.
The Police emphasized that its primary mission during campaigns is to protect lives and property, facilitate peaceful assemblies, and prevent violence.
According to ACP Kituuma, any use of force will be guided by strict rules of engagement, with non-lethal measures such as warnings and negotiations prioritized.
He clarified that firearms will not be used to disperse crowds during this election period.
“Firearms will not be used to disperse crowds; warnings, negotiations, and graduated non-lethal measures come first,” ACP Kituuma stated.
In addition, all deployments of force will be recorded, medical care will be provided when necessary, and independent investigations will follow any incident involving serious injury or death.
