Entebbe, Uganda – President Yoweri Museveni has instructed the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to take decisive action against political intimidation and harassment, in what he described as a key step toward safeguarding Uganda’s democratic principles.
The directive was issued during a high-level security meeting held at State House Entebbe, where Museveni chaired a joint session of the UPDF High Command and the Defence Council.
The President emphasized the army’s dual responsibility: maintaining regional peace and ensuring internal stability.
“UPDF has a vital role in protecting Uganda’s democracy,” Museveni stated, according to a release from the UPDF Public Information Office led by Col Chris Magezi. “It must prevent intimidation and harassment of citizens based on their political beliefs.”
Museveni’s comments come at a time of growing concern over the military’s increasing involvement in Uganda’s domestic politics, particularly during electoral periods.
The President stressed that while the UPDF has been active in peacekeeping missions in neighboring countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and Somalia, it must not neglect the situation at home.
However, recent incidents have raised questions about the army’s impartiality. During the Kawempe North by-election in March, multiple reports surfaced of UPDF officers assaulting opposition supporters and journalists.
Videos and eyewitness accounts pointed to members of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JATT) using excessive force against those affiliated with the National Unity Platform (NUP), the country’s leading opposition party.
Several NUP politicians, including Kyengera Mayor Mathias Walukaga, Mawokota North MP Hillary Kiyaga, and Kira Municipality Mayor Julius Mutebi, reported being abducted, blindfolded, and tortured by soldiers.
Victims were allegedly told to “call Bobi Wine and Kabaka Mutebi” to save them—an apparent mockery of their political and cultural affiliations. Most were hospitalized after their release, bearing visible signs of torture.
Despite strong condemnation from opposition leaders and human rights groups, President Museveni reiterated the UPDF’s mandate to shield citizens from political threats, maintaining that no Ugandan should suffer harassment because of differing views.
The President’s directive also comes amid continued disappearances of NUP supporters, including close aide Eddie Mutwe.
Meanwhile, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Museveni’s son and a senior military figure, has issued repeated warnings to the NUP via social media, heightening political tensions.
Following the Defence Council meeting, Gen Muhoozi praised Museveni for his guidance and assured the nation of continued stability.
“The UPDF remains committed to protecting citizens, property, and national assets, ensuring a secure environment for economic growth,” the army said in a statement.
Gen Muhoozi also pointed to growing military cooperation with other African countries, highlighting joint training programs aimed at enhancing regional security.
The meeting brought together nearly all top commanders of the Ugandan military, including Deputy CDF Lt Gen Sam Okiding, Commander of Land Forces Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga, Air Force Chief Lt Gen Charles Okidi, Reserve Force Commander Lt Gen Otema Awany, and SFC Commander Maj Gen David Mugisha.
Also in attendance were Minister of Defence Jacob Oboth Oboth, Minister of State for Veteran Affairs Huda Oleru Abason, and Defence Ministry Permanent Secretary.
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