Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has voiced strong concerns over the conduct of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JAT) during the recent Kawempe North by-election, suggesting that the forceful tactics used could be a preview of what Ugandans may face during the 2026 general elections.
In a live interview on NBS Television’s Morning Breeze on Monday, Lukwago expressed his dissatisfaction with the heavy-handed actions of JAT, particularly the mistreatment of National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters and journalists.
He specifically pointed to the violence witnessed during the nomination of the NUP candidates, where JAT operatives were seen using excessive force to disperse crowds.
Witnesses reported incidents of journalists and civilians being physically assaulted and harassed, sparking widespread outrage.
Lukwago warned, “What JAT did in Kawempe North is just a harbinger of what will be done in 2026. This is not the Uganda we want to see during elections. Our people deserve peaceful, free, and fair democratic processes.”
The use of excessive force by JATT during the by-election has become a point of contention, with many in the public and civil society denouncing the treatment of citizens and press personnel.
However, despite the backlash, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, praised JAT for its actions, a move that further intensified public anger.
Lukwago countered this approval, stating, “It is unfortunate that instead of addressing the concerns raised, the authorities have chosen to applaud the brutality. This only adds to the fear and uncertainty among citizens as we head toward another national election.”
JATT, created under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2002, was originally tasked with countering terrorism threats, particularly from the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency.
However, its increasing involvement in civilian political events has sparked growing debate about its role in democratic processes and its accountability in handling civilians.
Lukwago reiterated the need for security forces to remain neutral, emphasizing that the presence of law enforcement should not instill fear during elections.
He stressed, “We must protect the integrity of our democratic processes and ensure that security agencies uphold the rights of all citizens.”
With the 2026 elections on the horizon, Lukwago's remarks underline the urgent need for electoral reforms and heightened respect for human rights, warning that the actions of the security forces during the Kawempe North by-election may set a troubling precedent for the country’s democratic future.