By Ben Musanje
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abbas Byakagaba has issued a stern warning to political candidates and the public, declaring that the police will strictly enforce the 6 p.m. curfew for campaign rallies.
Addressing the journalists at police headquarters on Monday morning in Naguru, Byakagaba warned that any violations would lead to immediate action, following growing concerns and accusations that the police are unfairly targeting certain political parties, especially the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Speaking with unwavering confidence, Byakagaba emphasized that the police’s primary duty is to maintain law and order, reminding critics that they are not engaging in “witch-hunting” but are fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities.
“We should be thanked for keeping the situation calm,” he declared, stressing that his actions are in line with the will of the people and the law. “We are not acting on our own, but with the full support of the Ugandan public, through the Constitution,” he added.
“We are charged with the preservation of law and order,” Byakagaba said, reiterating that the police are not targeting political opponents but are committed to ensuring national peace. “When we identify situations that could disrupt public order, we cannot sit back and do nothing,” he explained.
According to Byakagaba, the police have a responsibility to act, particularly when intelligence suggests a potential threat to peace. “People should thank us for being responsive and ensuring stability,” he added.
The IGP also addressed the issue of campaign rallies, particularly those organized by candidates who fail to follow agreed-upon routes or continue mobilizing in unauthorized areas.
Byakagaba argued that such actions disrupt the police’s operations, cause delays, and prevent rallies from concluding on time. “We cannot allow this to happen,” he warned, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the 6 p.m. curfew.
He further stated that if rallies extend past the deadline, the police will take action, with candidates facing consequences for violating the law.
In response to critics of the police’s actions against Robert Kyagulanyi Bobi Wine’s NUP presidential candidate, Byakagaba pointed out that all political parties must adhere to the same rules. “Have you seen the activities of other parties?” he asked, referring to the NUP, and underscored that the police were simply performing their duty in line with public expectations. “When candidates stop in non-designated areas to mobilize, it disrupts our plans. These delays could prevent someone from reaching their destination on time.”
Byakagaba also highlighted that his actions are aligned with the demands of Ugandans, who expect law enforcement to act swiftly and efficiently. “This is what the Ugandan people want—to work, knowing that the police are there to ensure law and order,” he said.
He reassured the public that the police would continue to fulfill their constitutional duties. “We are up to the task,” he added, vowing to ensure peaceful elections and a stable environment.
The IGP also addressed the broader role of the public in maintaining order. “You, the public, demand this from us,” Byakagaba said.
He made it clear that the police would not tolerate behavior undermining state authority, reference a recent incident in which a police officer was assaulted. “No one should harm or resist a police officer. This is the authority of the state,” he stated.
Byakagaba further expressed concerns about the misuse of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, to spread misinformation.
He warned that the police would investigate any such misuse and hold those responsible accountable. “We will follow the leads and find out who is behind this,” he promised.
As the election season progresses, Byakagaba reassured the public that the police remain committed to securing a peaceful election and ensuring a stable environment for Uganda’s development. “We are determined to deliver a safe and prosperous country,” he said, emphasizing that security is fundamental to Uganda’s progress, especially as the nation strives for greater economic growth.
While some may view Byakagaba’s tough stance as necessary for maintaining order, his remarks are likely to spark further debate about the balance between security and political freedoms in Uganda.
With the election just weeks away, tensions are expected to rise as the police chief makes it clear that violations of the law will not be tolerated. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
