Sections of the media carried reports that are erroneous, and grossly distort the correct position in regard to Police and other security agencies’ approach to the unlawful assemblies, disguised as ‘walk-to-work’ demonstrations.

Uganda Police Spokesperson Judith Nabaakoba

Specifically, the Observer, in its headline ‘Security Chiefs Clash at Walk to Work Meeting’, alleges that there is disharmony among the country’s security agencies over the handling of the unlawful processions, and other consequent offences.

We would like to inform the public that the said reports are false, and should be ignored.

All security organs have, right from the election period, continued to maintain a joint command centre and command structure, where all operational decisions are made, after all-inclusive deliberations, before personnel are briefed and deployed.

We have maintained the same all-inclusive platform, and worked together, to plan and respond to the orchestrated lawlessness experienced in the recent past.

There has been no split or disagreement in the leadership of the security organizations, as alleged in the Observer story, over the approach or response, to the provocative actions of leaders of these unlawful activities.

The Police have worked side by side with other security organizations, to maintain law and order, as evidenced by the joint patrols and deployments over this period.

Any suggestions or accusations targeting any individual organization or its leadership, is not only malicious and misconceived, but also a misguided attempt to tarnish the positive achievements, and success, of the concerned organization and persons.

The Daily Monitor, on its part, reported today that the Inspector-General of Police, Major General Kale Kayihura, had telephoned Inspector Alphonse Mutabazi, and commended him for escorting UPC leader, Dr. Olara Otunnu, to work last week.

This allegation is false. At no time did the IGP telephone the said officer, and neither did he commend him for his actions.

The Police operational orders in regard to the unlawful processions are very clear: the Police shall not allow these illegal processions to take place without the participants following the laid-down procedure, and involving the Police.

Any officer who acts outside these operational orders does so irregularly, and shall be subjected to internal disciplinary processes. There is no exception to this rule.

We have also noted the self-styled guidelines issued by UPC leader, Dr. Olara Otunnu, on the conduct and regulations of demonstrations.

It is only the Uganda Police Force, under Section 32(1) of the Police Act, that is empowered to regulate the conduct of public meetings and processions on roads and streets.

Dr. Otunnu is not a member of the Uganda Police Force, and his opinions and his purported guidelines are, certainly, not binding to the public or the Police.

The Police have put in place clear procedures on how any person who intends to hold a public meeting or processions on the roads and streets, must observe, before the event takes place. Any action in disregard of these procedures is unlawful and shall not be allowed to proceed.

The Uganda Police Force is grateful to the public for ignoring the unlawful and selfish acts of a few irresponsible persons, and their failed attempts, to entice the public to engage in lawlessness.

Judith Nabaakoba

Public Relations Officer

Uganda Police Force