POLICE VOW TO ENSURE VIOLENCE-FREE, HUMAN RIGHTS-COMPLIANT ELECTIONS

The Uganda Police Force spokesperson, Mr. Kituuma Rusoke addressing journalists in Jinja city.

URN/Moriku

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke has assured the public that the force is ready to manage the upcoming general elections free of violence while strictly observing human rights. 

Speaking to URN during a closed-door meeting with police commanders in the Kiira region, Rusoke emphasized that preventing electoral violence is a collective responsibility. 

He noted that the police are constantly engaging with stakeholders, including the Electoral Commission and civil society actors, to ensure standardized election policing that benefits all. Rusoke said the police have increased personnel numbers and expanded their fleet in preparation for the elections.

He challenged the public to understand that some incidents of violence arise from a small section of gangs or disputes between competing groups or individuals, which complicates police efforts to harmonize situations.

Regarding human rights, Rusoke stressed the need for the public to minimize actions that could lead to permanent injury or death. He also acknowledged isolated human rights violations by a few police officers and urged citizens to report any complaints to facilitate disciplinary action. 

Rusoke further warned police personnel against showing partisan tendencies, which could undermine the credibility of the electoral process. 

Faith Namansa, a member of the Human Rights Defenders Network, said police have historically topped lists of human rights violations and need to change this narrative. She noted that some officers react impulsively during tense situations, issuing unlawful orders that violate human rights.

Namansa called for cooperation between police and other stakeholders, emphasizing that minimizing election violence requires goodwill, rational decision-making, and a commitment to peace from all parties.