The Deputy Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Gen. Okiding Samuel, has assured Ugandans of comprehensive security during the forthcoming 2026 general elections.
Speaking on Sunday, November 9, 2025, during a talk show on Etop Radio 99.4 FM, Gen. Okiding emphasized that the UPDF will be actively deployed to guide and secure the electoral process.
He acknowledged concerns among some citizens but stressed that the elections will be conducted peacefully.
“No one in Uganda owns the UPDF; the army belongs to the people of Uganda. Together with our sister security agencies, we will ensure that all security arrangements are firmly in place,” he said.
Gen. Okiding also encouraged citizens to vote for visionary leaders capable of lifting the country out of poverty.
He urged voters to scrutinize all aspirants before casting their votes, warning against candidates who use money to buy votes, often offering as little as Shs 5,000 for five years, leaving citizens in a vulnerable position.
He added that economic empowerment, driven by capable leadership, is key to sustaining peace and development in Uganda.
Meanwhile, Col. Abel Ekellot, Coordinator for the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) and Operations Wealth Creation in the Teso sub-region, assured the public of total peace and stability during the elections.
“We are committed to providing maximum security to remove fears from the community during this election period,” he said.
Col. Ekellot also encouraged citizens to actively participate in government programs such as Wealth Creation, PDM, Emyonga, Youth Livelihood Program, and UWEP, which aim to reduce poverty.
In an exclusive interview, Daniel Mulalu, an independent aspirant for Ngariam County in Katakwi District, called for peaceful elections and promised continuous service delivery if elected for the 2026–2031 term.
Prior to the NRM primaries, Mulalu donated solar panels to all primary schools in Ngariam County to enhance education and installed security lights in trading centers to boost local business.
Local voters also expressed their views on leadership and security. Simon Ojoto from Katakwi Town Council praised the UPDF for their service and urged the community to safeguard their votes by electing leaders who can deliver meaningful development.
Goretty Asio from Ngariam Sub-County encouraged voters to reject candidates motivated solely by money, advocating instead for leaders committed to poverty eradication.
She also called on the Electoral Commission to intensify voter education to ensure citizens understand their roles during elections.
Security authorities have confirmed that massive deployments will be carried out across all gazetted polling stations nationwide to guarantee a safe and peaceful electoral process.
