The Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) and Uganda Police Force (UPF) have not yet disclosed who authorized the deployment of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JAT) in Kawempe North’s by-election campaigns.
Opposition supporters, and other Ugandans have raised concerns over heavy-handed security operations, but authorities remain tight-lipped on the issue.
Acting UPDF spokesperson, Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye, and Police Spokesperson, ACP Kituuma Rusoke, have not confirmed whether JAT’s presence was initiated by the military or at the request of police.
When pressed by journalists, both Maj Gen Kulayigye and the Director of Counter-Terrorism, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) David Wasswa Ssengendo, insisted that JAT operates as a joint force.
“Do you think the situation in Kawempe is normal? Haven’t you seen the video of stones being thrown at security officers? Are you not aware that opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi was advised to use Gayaza Road, but he defied?” Kulayigye responded, without directly addressing the authority behind JAT’s deployment.
JAT is a multi-agency unit comprising police, intelligence agencies, and elements of Defence Intelligence and Security (DIS), formerly known as the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI).
However, police spokesperson Rusoke appeared uncertain about the composition of JAT in Kawempe, only stating that it was conducting “joint security operations” and that the nature of its work was highly sensitive.
Opposition Alleges Brutality
The National Unity Platform (NUP) has accused JAT of using excessive force, claiming that several of its supporters have suffered serious injuries, including broken limbs.
Party officials say they are compiling a list of victims and intend to take legal action against JAT and other security personnel involved.
The deployment has raised concerns over electoral fairness and the safety of voters ahead of the by-election.
The Electoral Commission (EC), led by Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, has since held discussions with police operations chief AIGP Frank Mwesigwa in a bid to ensure a peaceful election.
Mwesigwa reaffirmed the security agencies’ commitment to maintaining order and preventing disruptions at polling stations, campaign events, and the tallying centre.
Meanwhile, police urged the EC to engage with all political actors to ensure compliance with campaign guidelines.
The situation in Kawempe remains tense, with security operations continuing amid calls from opposition leaders and civil society groups for greater transparency and accountability in law enforcement.
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