The Director of Public Prosecutions, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo has warned that her office will not shy away from prosecuting anyone.
Abodo specifically made reference to the forthcoming 2026 general elections where a number of electoral offenses will be committed by politicians from the opposition and those from the ruling party.
“As prosecutors, we get misunderstood especially during elections where offences are committed. As prosecutors, must we shy away and say we shall not prosecute this offence because we fear being said that we are political? No! I want to assure everyone that as prosecutors we shall prosecute anyone,” Abodo said.
“When we see any offence, we are going to prosecute. When there is evidence, we shall prosecute, whether a member of NRM or a member of NUP or any other political party. We shall prosecute them and will not shy away from this.”
According to Abodo, there is always evidence to these offences, assuring prosecutors that they have her back as they carry out their duties.
“As an office we shall always prosecute. I also want to assure the prosecutors that just do your work and I will cover your back. Do the right thing and I will always be behind you. There will be offences committed and if there is evidence, please go ahead and charge the offenders and I will cover you. However, when you don’t do the right thing, you will totally be alone.”
She said over the years, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has evolved into a cornerstone of Uganda’s criminal justice system, noting that she is confident in the current crop of prosecutors that the country has.
The DPP however insisted that it is high time prosecutors are judged fairly, taking into account circumstances under which they work.
She said effective prosecution goes beyond court as it begins with effective investigations by the police.
“A case is won or lost at investigation. We need to work hand in hand with police, judiciary, government, civil society organisations and development partners for a responsive and efficient system. We advocate for a chain-linked approach.”
The DPP’s comments come at a time when the 2026 election fever seems to have gone up with the recent conclusion of the NRM internal elections which were in some areas were marred with violence.
The police recently trained over 400 officers in investigating cases, an act seen as preparing for the forthcoming 2026 polls.
The Police Crime Investigations Director, AIGP Tom Magambo last year warned they will not tolerate anyone who disrupts the forthcoming polls.
“There will be no chaos here! If you’re busy planning it, then you should expect the system to come for you. Our people must have a peaceful election, and whoever is planning to threaten our people, regardless of the political colors, will be dealt with accordingly,” Maj Magambo said.
“So I will be lying to you that we are going to sit down and watch you burning the city. That one will not happen I want to assure you if you’re planning, anarchy you prepare yourself because that is what the constitution has asked us to.”
