By The Uganda Police Force has issued a fresh warning to candidates and their supporters over rising cases of violence, illegal processions and criminal gangs disguising themselves in party colours during the ongoing national campaigns.
Addressing the weekly press briefing at Police Headquarters on Monday, ACP Rusoke Kituuma cautioned that security agencies will take firm action against individuals fueling clashes and disrupting the campaign exercise.
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He noted that although campaigns at all levels presidential, parliamentary, local government and special interest groups are underway nationwide, many candidates are disregarding agreed protocols.
“We have observed rival groups colliding, fighting and beating each other. Such conduct attracts punitive action, and this action will be individual, not blanket,” ACP Rusoke said. “If you commit an offence, we take you on as a person.”
He advised all candidates to involve key stakeholders especially the police and the Electoral Commission in their planning to ensure harmony and avoid confrontations.
Rusoke also issued a strong directive against campaign processions, saying they are increasingly becoming a tactic used by candidates to mobilise crowds while evading rally regulations.
“What we do not want and what we prohibit is a candidate generating a procession and campaigning through it,” he said. “Commanders have been tasked to address this trend.”
The police spokesperson further raised alarm over criminal gangs who disguise themselves in party T-shirts and colours to blend into campaign crowds before committing robberies.
“We have seen criminals attacking people and even targeting mobile money outlets. Commanders are dealing with these goons, and we shall handle them decisively,” he warned.
Rusoke urged candidates and supporters to respect traffic guidelines and cooperate with security personnel throughout the campaign period.
Police said operations to curb illegal processions, violence and criminal activity will continue across the country as campaigns progress.
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