Heightened Security Ahead of Kawempe North By-Election
Security agencies in Kampala have stepped up vigilance ahead of the highly anticipated Kawempe North by-election set for tomorrow.
The election will fill the vacant Member of Parliament (MP) seat for Kawempe North and the directly elected councillor position for Kazo Angola A, Angola Ward in Kawempe Division.
Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) spokesperson Patrick Onyango assured the public that law enforcement officers are fully prepared to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process.
Onyango revealed that security agencies have identified potential hotspots in Kawempe North where unrest could arise, placing forces on high alert to counter any threats of civil disobedience or election-related violence.
“There will be mobile forces responsible for foot and motorized patrols to attend to emergencies. These units will comprise the Field Force Unit, General Duty Police, Military Police, Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and 999 patrol vehicles,” Onyango stated.
The deployment aims to deter any attempts to disrupt the election and ensure voters can exercise their constitutional rights without fear or intimidation.
Security agencies have pledged to maintain professionalism and discipline while enforcing law and order.
Onyango urged residents of Kawempe North to turn up in large numbers and participate peacefully in the election.
“In preparation for the by-election, security agencies have heightened vigilance across Kampala, particularly in Kawempe North, to ensure a peaceful electoral process. While the general security situation in the country remains calm, authorities acknowledge the existing political tension linked to the election,” he said.
Authorities reassured the public that deployed personnel would respect the rights of civilians while carrying out their duties.
With security arrangements in place, the Electoral Commission and law enforcement agencies are encouraging all eligible voters to cast their ballots freely.
However, security forces are under scrutiny following reports of violence during the two-week campaign period, during which several National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters were allegedly arrested, tortured, and injured.
Journalists have also been caught in the fray, with Top TV reporter Ibra Miracle among those attacked while on duty last week.
He sustained severe injuries, nearly losing an eye, and has since been hospitalized. The government has pledged to cover his medical expenses.
Human rights activists and journalists have condemned the security forces’ heavy-handedness, particularly actions by the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JATT).
As voters in Kawempe North head to the polls, concerns remain over how security agencies will handle the electoral process, with calls for restraint and adherence to human rights principles.
