We won't tolerate bad behaviour during local government nominations—Police

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As Uganda prepares for the nomination of local government candidates set for September 3-5, 2025, the Uganda Police Force has issued a strong advisory urging politicians and their supporters to uphold peace, traffic rules, and the Electoral Commission’s (EC) guidelines during the nomination period.

Addressing the media on Monday, September 1, at Police headquarters in the Kampala city-based suburb of Naguru, Uganda Police Force spokesperson, Rusoke Kituuma, emphasised the vital role security agencies play in maintaining order during the electoral process, warning political actors against inciting violence, disobeying traffic regulations and presenting forged documents.

“We remind all candidates and their supporters that nominations for district and city chairpersons, the Lord Mayor, councillors and special interest group representatives will be held from September 3rd to 5th. This process must be conducted in an orderly and lawful manner,” said Kituuma.

He noted that previous elections had seen candidates and supporters resort to violence and disruption after failing to meet nomination requirements.

“Some candidates ignore the Electoral Commission guidelines, and when disqualified over technicalities, they take to the streets in protest. This behaviour is unacceptable. If the rules say you must come with verified documents, don’t come with forged or adulterated papers. You will certainly become a police client—either as a suspect or a victim,” he warned.

Kituuma stressed that all candidates must adhere to the EC’s guidelines, available both in print and online.

The Police also raised concerns about reckless behaviour on the roads during nomination events, condemning the use of convoys, rooftop passengers, and disorderly groups moving through towns. Kituuma warned that such conduct would not be tolerated.

“There is no reason why you need to come with people riding on rooftops, bodabodas riding dangerously, or roving bands of rowdy supporters. If you want to lead the public, you should first demonstrate respect for basic laws,” he stated.

“We urge everyone to remember that they are not the only road users. While you may be rushing for nomination, others are going to hospitals, markets, and schools. Do not disrupt public order.”

The police also issued a stern warning against the mobilisation of what Kituuma described as "lumpen groups" or “bayaye,” often responsible for acts of hooliganism during political events.

“We do not want to see lumpen groups being mobilised for intimidation or chaos. You can get nominated in a civil and civilised manner,” he said.

Kituuma called for co-operation between political actors and law enforcement, reiterating that the police are available to assist candidates facing logistical or security challenges.

“We believe by now every serious candidate has police contacts. If you face any challenge, reach out. There’s nothing we cannot solve together as long as there is co-operation and civility,” he said.

“We’ve been preparing. These elections are not new to us. What we expect is discipline, order, and respect for the law.”

The Uganda Police Force has promised to maintain a strong security presence across the country throughout the nomination period to ensure a peaceful process.