The role of police in the electoral process

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OPINION

Dr Aisha Kayongo

The role of the police during the electoral process in Uganda is primarily to ensure that elections are conducted in a peaceful, free, and fair environment. These duties are guided by the Uganda Police Force Act, the Electoral Commission, and the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, writes SP Dr Kayongo Aisha (PhD).

Elections are the foundation of democratic governance. For elections to be credible, free, and fair, a secure environment must be maintained before, during, and after the electoral process. The police, therefore, play a vital role in safeguarding the electoral process, upholding the rule of law, and promoting constitutional rights and freedoms.

One of the key responsibilities of the police in the electoral process is ensuring public safety and order. This includes preventing and responding to unrest, securing public gatherings and political rallies, and managing protests. Through their presence and preparedness, the police help to deter violence and maintain calm during politically sensitive periods.

The police are also tasked with the protection of electoral infrastructure and materials. This includes securing polling stations, voting centres, ballot boxes, voter registers, Electoral Commission offices, transportation routes for election materials, and tallying centres. The visible presence of police officers acts as a strong deterrent to criminal and destructive activities that could undermine the credibility of elections.

Another critical role of the police is the enforcement of electoral laws. Police officers work to prevent and investigate electoral offences such as voter intimidation, vote buying, illegal campaigning, hate speech, and ballot stuffing. Where applicable, they also ensure compliance with movement restrictions and other electoral regulations, working closely with courts to prosecute offenders.

During tense electoral periods, the police play an important role in conflict mediation and de-escalation. They respond to disputes at polling stations, intervene in violent situations, and manage post-election protests in a manner that preserves public order while respecting citizens’ rights.

The police also contribute to the electoral process through public education and awareness. By engaging communities through outreach programs and the media, the police educate the public on electoral laws and offences. This helps reduce fear, misinformation, and election-related tension, thereby promoting peaceful participation.

Protecting voters and candidates is another essential responsibility. The police ensure the safety and freedom of all participants in the electoral process, with special attention to marginalized groups such as women and persons with disabilities, as well as political candidates and their supporters. Their presence reassures the public and encourages voter turnout, which is vital to democratic participation.

In addition, the police provide critical support to the Electoral Commission by assisting in the implementation of the election program. This includes enforcing campaign guidelines on approved venues and time schedules, as well as providing security to Electoral Commission staff and materials.

The Uganda Police Force has embraced technology to enhance service delivery and public access. The Force operates an official website (www.upf.go.ug) and a mobile application available on the Google Play Store. These platforms provide contact information for regional police commanders, district police commanders, traffic and counter services, and police contacts at sub-county levels. The mobile application also allows users to check traffic fines by entering a vehicle number and provides information on lost and found items such as national identity cards, passports, and other documents reported or recovered by police.

After elections, the police continue to play a crucial role in post-election security. They manage protests and disputes that may arise, maintain peace during the announcement of results, and enforce the law throughout election petitions and court challenges.

In conclusion, the police play a critical role in safeguarding democracy in Uganda by ensuring peace, security, and respect for the law throughout the electoral process. However, to maintain public trust and confidence in elections, the police are expected to remain neutral, professional, and non-partisan at all times.

The writer is a Police Press and publications officer.