Police Spokesman Kituuma Rusoke has confirmed that officers will be assigned to all candidates in the Kawempe North by-election, set to take place on March 13.
The seat fell vacant in January, following the demise of Honourable Ssegirinya Mohammed, the former Member of Parliament for the area.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday at the Police Headquarters in Naguru, Rusoke noted that security measures are being put in place to ensure the election proceeds smoothly and peacefully.
“We have designated police officers at the rank of Superintendent of Police at all the nine parishes in Kawempe North to coordinate security. So, we shall be linking these officers to the candidates. Elections are a very challenging exercise. Sometimes they can explode into something.” Rusoke stated.
The police spokesperson encouraged all political parties and candidates to adhere strictly to the guidelines provided by the Electoral Commission.
“We urge all parties to follow the Electoral Commission’s regulations, and we encourage candidates to work closely with the Uganda Police Force to ensure everything goes smoothly,” he added.
Acknowledging the heightened tensions that often accompany elections, Rusoke called for vigilance in preventing any potential violence.
“Elections can sometimes be challenging, and things may get heated. However, we must have mechanisms in place to prevent conflict from escalating,” he said.
Rusoke also stressed the importance of maintaining peace during the election process, as it is vital for the democratic system.
“Our goal is to ensure that the election remains peaceful. If any issues arise, we must work together to resolve them swiftly. Anything can emerge from anywhere, a spark, and then you have a conflict, and at times that conflict can go violent, occasioning injuries. ” he stated.
Furthermore, the police spokesperson urged the public to refrain from announcing unofficial election results.
“Do not announce your own results. Wait for the official results from the Electoral Commission. Premature results only cause confusion and unnecessary anxiety,” Rusoke cautioned.
The Kawempe North parliamentary by-election has faced significant political activity, with nine candidates from various parties vying for the seat.
The main contenders are Elias Nalukoola, representing the National Unity Platform (NUP), and Faridah Nambi, the candidate from the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Members of Parliament and the public have criticized security agencies for their interference and excessive force during the campaigns. This followed security personnel, including the Uganda Police Force, Joint Anti-Terrorism Task Force (JATT) used beatings, live bullets, and tear gas against NUP supporters.
At least 24 people, including two Members of Parliament Derrick Nyeko (Makindye East) and Nkunyingi Muwadda (Kyadondo East) were arrested during the ongoing campaigns. The arrests were reportedly due to alleged illegal possession of military gear and being public nuisance among others.
Dr. Tanga Odoi, Chairman of the NRM Electoral Commission, accused the police of campaigning for the opposition by allegedly targeting NRM supporters during the campaigns.
The Uganda Law Society (ULS) condemned the actions of security personnel, labeling them as unacceptable in a democratic process. Similarly, the Electoral Commission expressed regret over the violence, describing the scenes as unfortunate.
The EC summoned police leaders to discuss the conduct of security forces during the campaigns and agreed to adherence to laws and guidelines, prevent violent confrontations, and promote peaceful elections.
The NUP that condemned the actions of security forces, also met with the EC leadership last week.
