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Rusoke Kituuma
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By Shivan Ayebare Kagyete
The Uganda Police Force has created nine electoral policing zones to bolster security ahead of the upcoming NRM primaries and the 2026 general elections. The appointments, announced in a press release on Tuesday, 15th July, are part of a broader security strategy aimed at ensuring a peaceful, lawful, and orderly election process.
Speaking at Police Headquarters in Naguru, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abas Byakagaba said the decision was informed by fears of potential electoral violence and the need for improved coordination of security operations during the election season. "The zones will help us strengthen intelligence gathering, improve response times, and maintain law and order during the primaries and general elections," the IGP stated. He assured the public that police officers would maintain neutrality and professionalism throughout the electoral process.
Police spokesperson ACP R. Kituuma raised concerns over the conduct of some candidates, aspirants, and their agents, noting that in several cases, they have deviated from established legal frameworks and Electoral Commission guidelines.
"We have observed rising tensions manifesting in violent attacks, the hiring of goons, vandalism of vehicles, waylaying of rival candidates, and the use of radio platforms to defame opponents through malicious allegations and sectarian innuendos," Kituuma said.
He added that disruptive behaviors, such as using noisy public address systems to sabotage rival rallies, have become increasingly common.
Kituuma also shared that he has conducted physical security assessments in districts including Sembabule, Mbarara, Isingiro, Kabale, Rukiga, and Rukungiri, where he met with candidates, district security committees, and leaders of the ruling NRM party primaries.
However, he noted that several areas have so far experienced total peace and civility, reflecting the success of early interventions.
The nine zones will be supervised by senior police officers working closely with other security agencies to prevent violence and intimidation. The new zonal commanders are as follows:
This move comes as Uganda braces for a tense political period marked by competitive party primaries and the run-up to the 2026 general elections.
Torch Media Africa
