Senior security officials have reassured Ugandans of peace, stability, and institutional readiness as the country prepares for the upcoming electoral period, emphasizing that the nation remains secure and fully functional.
Speaking during the Spotlight show on NBS Television on Sunday night, the Chief Political Commissar of the UPDF, Maj. Gen. Henry Masiko, affirmed that Uganda is stable and firmly under the control of government and security agencies.
He noted that all security forces are on high alert and that the country’s borders remain secure.
Maj. Gen. Masiko described the current electoral period as a critical stage in Uganda’s democratic journey, explaining that while democracy is still relatively young in the country, it has steadily grown and consolidated since 1986.
He reminded citizens that the UPDF operates under a clear constitutional mandate to protect Uganda’s sovereignty while ensuring that power remains with the people.
He reassured Ugandan’s that the UPDF remains a people’s force, vigilant, prepared, and committed to protecting citizens as they exercise their democratic rights peacefully and responsibly.
Adding to the reassurance, the Acting Defence Public Information Officer, Col. Chris Magezi, said that security threats are not always external and that when internal threats arise, the UPDF is constitutionally mandated to safeguard the nation.
He highlighted the UPDF’s contribution beyond security, citing its role in national development through initiatives such as the Engineering Brigade, the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), and Operation Wealth Creation.
Col. Magezi noted that elections often come with heightened tension, making it important for security agencies to provide reassurance and maintain public confidence.
He stressed that the UPDF remains committed to stability and the protection of every Ugandan.
Uganda Prisons Service Spokesperson, SCP Frank Baine, emphasized the strong coordination among the Army, Police, and Prisons, describing them as key pillars of the State and members of the National Security Council.
He assured the public that the Prisons Service has adequate capacity and readiness to reinforce security whenever required.
SCP Baine further revealed that prisons officers have been deployed as election constables upon request by the Inspector General of Police, underscoring the collective commitment to a peaceful and orderly electoral process.
He said the visible presence of uniformed personnel is meant to reassure citizens, stressing that security agencies are proactive and prepared to deal firmly, but lawfully, with any threats to peace.
He urged citizens to reject violence, intimidation, and lawlessness, reminding Ugandan’s that peace is a shared responsibility and that the country belongs to all.
Meanwhile, Uganda Police Spokesperson ACP Rusoke Kituuma assured the public that Uganda is not at a crossroads, noting that the electoral process is guided by clear laws, guidelines, and defined roles for all stakeholders.
He reaffirmed that the Uganda Police Force remains the lead agency for election security, tasked with ensuring a safe, mature, and stable environment for peaceful elections.
ACP Kituuma emphasized the importance of coordination among all security agencies, adding that a robust security presence is necessary to protect citizens and secure key installations across the country.
Together, the security leaders reiterated their commitment to safeguarding peace, democracy, and national stability, calling on all Ugandan’s to play their part in ensuring a calm and successful electoral process.
