With Uganda’s 2026 General Elections just days away, the Uganda Police Force has urged all political candidates at all levels to demonstrate maturity and restraint during and after polling day on January 15, 2026.
The force notes that some opponents have been instructing voters to linger at polling stations after casting their votes, despite legal directives requiring them to leave or stay at least 20 meters away from the voting area.
The Police Political Commissar, Ubaldo Bamunoba, reassured the public that security agencies are prepared to maintain order and ensure a peaceful electoral process.
He called on candidates and voters alike to respect instructions from security personnel on election day t avoid any conflict.
Speaking at a joint security briefing at police headquarters, Bamunoba emphasized that Uganda is entering a critical phase as campaigns intensify through both media and physical engagements targeting various voter groups.
He warned there is no justification for criminal behavior in the name of elections.
“Citizens are urged to exercise maximum restraint and reject violence, even when provoked by political opponents,” Bamunoba said. “Peaceful participation is a clear demonstration of political maturity and must be upheld at all times. Any incidents of violence or disorder should be reported immediately to the nearest police station or security authority for swift action.”
He added that police are working closely with other security forces to secure the electoral process at all levels.
“It is a collective responsibility to safeguard the country’s electoral gains by promoting peaceful engagement and upholding the rule of law,” Bamunoba said, reminding candidates that “good leadership is born of clean conduct.”
As Uganda approaches one of its most pivotal elections in recent history, the police has was warned that political rivalry must not come at the expense of national peace.
