At a high-level security review on Wednesday at the President’s Office in Kampala, Minister for Internal Affairs Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire delivered a candid message on the need for fair treatment of political parties and their supporters.Known for speaking his mind, Otafiire warned that opposition leaders and their followers should not face harassment while others carry out their activities freely.The meeting, held to review the 2022 campaign “Islam is not terrorism,” also addressed wrongful arrests of Muslims accused of links to the ADF rebel group. However, Otafiire used the platform to stress that security agencies must investigate thoroughly before making arrests, urging that detaining people first and releasing them later due to lack of evidence undermines trust in law enforcement.
Otafiire argued that Uganda’s multiparty democracy demands fairness, and just like a farmer who waters only one side of a garden, neglecting the other side, Otafire cautioned security personnel that political dominance is not permanent and encouraged the NRM to win voters through persuasion rather than intimidation.
Demonstrating his personal style of outspokenness, Otafiire urged attendees, regardless of party affiliation (whether NUP, PFF or any other political party) to support and vote him in his constituency, framing his plea as a call for accountability rather than partisan politics. He reminded officials that Uganda belongs to all citizens and that the actions of today shape the legacy left for future generations. He noted that when they took over power, the NRA/M were despised for being young and inexperienced but they have managed to rule the country for all these Years, and so any other party (NUP, as he put it) could one day become the ruling party.
Otafiire’s message highlighted his long-standing record of speaking out against unfair treatment, even within his own party. By emphasizing fairness, accountability, and political equality, he positioned himself as a champion for democratic norms and a voice for opposition members who often face undue pressure.
At this moment, when Uganda heads toward the 2026 elections, Otafiire’s message resonates as a reminder that the stability of a country and its ruling party is tied to respecting the rights of all political actors, ensuring that democracy flourishes rather than falters.
