The Uganda Electoral Commission has expressed concern at the formation of militia groups by different political groups in Uganda, which the elections body is worried might lead to violence during the 2011 general elections.

The Chairman of the EC, Eng. Dr. Badru Kiggundu told a briefing of journalists and diplomats on Wednesday that several political parties have affiliated militia groups that might destabilize the 2011 elections exercise.

Uganda Electoral Commision Chairman, Eng. Badru Kiggundu

“Certain political parties and candidates have organised militia groups with the pretext of guarding their votes,” Kiggundu said warning that the formation of militia brigades is illegal and will not be tolerated.

Kiggundu cited Kikankane, Blue Cobra, Red Brigade, Black Mamba, Bamboo Youth brigade, Kibooko Squad, 3K Brigade, Mwoyo Gwagwanga and the Black Brigade.

The “Kiboko (stick) Squad,” is believed to be aligned to the rulling National Resitance Movement, while other militia groups spearheaded by the Forum for Democratic Change, the Democratic Party among other political groups.

Kiggundu said the EC is working with the Uganda police to ensure such militia are not allowed to operate and whoever tries to destabilize the elections is arrested and charged.

The Inspector general of Police, Maj. Gen. Kale Kayihura said the police is also on full alert over terrorists who might target the busy election period to attack the country.

He says Uganda is under intense terror threats and the security agencies are not taking them lightly. Over 80 Ugandans died in a July 11 twin bomb blast that was claimed by Somalia’s al-shabab militia who have vowed to continue hurting Uganda for its involvement in Somalia. Uganda has committed the biggest number of peace keeping troops to the Africa Union Peace Keeping Mission in Somalia