The Uganda Prisons Service has said it is fully prepared to support the country’s security arrangements ahead of the January 15 general elections, with its Frank Baine spokesperson likening the exercise to a wedding.
Speaking on NBS Television’s Spotlight Ug show, Baine said the elections present an opportunity for all state agencies to demonstrate professionalism and commitment to peace.
“We have a legitimate government sitting whose obligation is to make sure it handles a transition to the next government that comes as a result of Democratic performance of the citizens of Uganda and this must be handled peacefully,” Mr Baine said.
He described the polls as a special national moment that calls for the best conduct from all involved institutions.
“I will take this one as a something like a wedding. When it's a wedding, everybody dresses to their best. Since this is Avery special occasion, every agency that is participating in this election, this is a time to display their capabilities, their abilities and their and willingness to maintain a serene environment,” he said.
Mr Baine said the Prisons Service is working closely with other security agencies to ensure law and order during the electoral period.
He noted that prisons officers have been deployed to reinforce police operations.
“We do a number of things apart from joint security. Our staff on request of the Inspector General of Police, have been enlisted to beef up police in terms of being election constables,” he said.
He added that maintaining stability is critical, noting that prisons would ultimately deal with the consequences of any breakdown in law and order.
“It is also our responsibility to make sure the situations are ok because whatever chaos comes up, we will be at the tail end,” Mr Baine said.
Uganda is set to go to the polls on January 15 amid heightened security deployment across the country.
