Iganga, Uganda: Security commanders in Busoga East have been instructed to intensify routine security operations while upholding professionalism and respect for human rights as Uganda heads into the January 15, 2026 general elections.
The Regional Police Commander for Busoga East, Senyonjo Abas, delivered the directive on Thursday during a joint security meeting at Iganga District headquarters, where stakeholders reviewed security arrangements before, during and after the elections.
SSP Senyonjo tasked district police commanders to ensure early deployment, regular foot and motorised patrols, and strict professionalism in the execution of duty.
The meeting brought together key security and administrative leaders, including the Cantonment Commander of Magamaga Army Barracks Richard Wakayinja, the Regional Internal Security Officer, Resident District Commissioners, District Police Commanders, the Iganga District Prisons Commander, and Returning Officers from Iganga, Mayuge, Namayingo, Bugiri, Bugweri and Namutumba districts.
Security commanders were taken through a detailed tactical deployment plan focusing on securing election materials, polling stations, tally centres, vital installations and key routes to counter potential threats during the electoral period.
Brig. Gen. Wakayinja urged commanders to engage political candidates and remain prepared for all eventualities, while condemning the practice of supporters concealing vehicle registration numbers using stickers and campaign posters.
He also criticised candidates who deploy personal security guards under the guise of “protecting votes” but end up instigating violence.
The meeting unanimously resolved to work jointly to ensure a peaceful electoral process and agreed to take disciplinary action against any security personnel who deploy themselves in areas where they have personal interests.
Busoga East Police Spokesperson Michael Kasadha said security agencies will not tolerate self-deployment by officers from outside the region.
“We shall not entertain self-deployment of any security personnel from outside Busoga East. We shall not hesitate to take action against any operative found engaging in such conduct,” ASP Kasadha said.
He added that bodyguards assigned to VIPs will be restricted to protecting their principals and will not participate in the wider election security operation.
The meeting further resolved that all vehicles must display visible registration numbers during the election period, banning the use of posters or stickers to conceal number plates.
“We encourage members of the public to turn up and vote with confidence. Security has been evenly deployed not to intimidate, but to safeguard citizens as they exercise their constitutional right,” Kasadha said.
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