KAMPALA. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Byakagaba Abas has issued a strong call for calm, restraint and respect for the law as the country enters the final stages of the campaign period ahead of the January 2026 general elections.
Addressing the weekly police briefing at Police headquarters in Naguru on Monday , the IGP noted that Uganda is “a month and a few days” away to the General Election and commended the public, the Electoral Commission, security agencies and candidates for what he described as “reasonable” compliance with electoral guidelines so far. He, however, highlighted several incidents that he said remain a concern for law enforcement.
According to the IGP, recent confrontations have largely arisen from violations of agreed campaign routes, rallies held in undesignated areas, and breaches of traffic and public order rules. He stressed that political expression must be balanced with the rights of other citizens to conduct their daily activities without disruption.
“It is our duty as the Uganda Police Force to ensure that both sides enjoy their rights and freedoms, and that whoever breaches the law is handled appropriately,” Byakagaba said, adding that maintaining order during campaigns is essential for peaceful elections.
The IGP cited several incidents that resulted in injuries, property damage and arrests. These include the October 28 attack on police officers in Lira District; the assault of a civilian in Abim District on October 29; confrontations during a November 24 procession in Kawempe; and clashes in Kayunga District on November 27 over campaign time limits. He also noted a November 28 incident in Iganga District in which stone-throwing escalated into violence, leading to one civilian death as officers dispersed crowds.
Byakagaba reported that a separate, planned operation in Mbarara District on November 7 led to the arrest and prosecution of suspects linked to criminal activities in different parts of the country.
The IGP reiterated that security agencies “strongly condemn all forms of electoral violence and lawlessness” and warned that such behavior will be dealt with firmly. He emphasized that maintaining peace is essential to safeguarding the country’s socio-economic gains.
He cautioned against acts such as incitement, hate speech, defacement of campaign materials, unauthorized processions, attacks on security personnel, campaigning beyond permitted hours and the misuse of artificial intelligence tools. Political parties were also advised against forming informal security groups, with the IGP noting that security for all candidates remains the responsibility of state agencies.
Byakagaba reaffirmed the Police Force’s commitment to ensuring that all Ugandans can campaign, vote and participate in the electoral process safely.
“There can never be elections where there is no peace,” he said. “We urge all stakeholders to exercise their rights responsibly and respect the rights of others.”
He concluded by assuring the public that security agencies will continue working together to maintain order before, during and after the January 15 polls .