Ugandan riot police officers detain an activist during a march in support of the European Parliament resolution to stop the construction of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline, on environmental basis, near the European Union offices in Kampala, Uganda October 4, 2022. REUTERS/Abubaker Lubowa
Uganda Police Crack Down on Campaign Violence, Arrest Ten After Attack on Officers
KAMPALA – The Uganda Police Force has issued a strong warning against escalating campaign violence, announcing the arrest of ten individuals following a direct attack on its officers and detailing a pattern of what it calls “intolerable” aggression by supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP).
In a press release dated October 29, 2025, the police stated that while the presidential campaign trail has been generally peaceful, “conflict entrepreneurs” have provoked officers with increasing belligerence, including damaging vehicles, assaulting personnel, and causing chaotic scenes.
The most severe incident cited occurred on October 28 in Obot A village, Lira City. According to police, a group of NUP supporters ambushed officers in a vehicle (UBK 380Q) that was part of the trail behind presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi. The assailants allegedly punctured the vehicle’s tires, confiscated a key sensor, and stole two jerricans of diesel, a bag of clothes, and a laptop.
Police refuted claims from the group that the targeted vehicle contained a network-jamming device, stating the accusation was “fabricated… to create chaos.” A case of malicious damage and robbery has been registered.
The ten individuals arrested in connection with this incident are: Ssembusi Precious Paul, Bukenya Ismail, Lokoro Liberty, Nakabuye Mastura, Waiswa Raston, Nasozi Hope, Saliman Kagwa, Kamulegeya Regan, Katamba Stephen, and Lubega Alison. They are detained at Lira City Central Police Station awaiting guidance from the Director of Public Prosecutions. A vehicle, a green Toyota Hiace registration UA 933AU, was also impounded.
The press release listed several other recent assaults on police officers:
· October 3, Mayuge District: An officer covering an NUP event was allegedly assaulted by “Kanyamas” of the candidate, sustaining serious injuries and having his phone stolen.
· October 8, Kyankwanzi District: A detective constable was attacked during a rally, and a responding Non-Commissioned Officer was punched by a “foot soldier” who fled.
· October 21, Kisiita Town Council: Police accused Kyagulanyi’s campaign of deviating from a pre-agreed route, driving on a pavement, and damaging a police pickup (UP 7694). An unruly crowd damaged a police vehicle’s windscreen, leading to a standoff.
· Busia: An officer was assaulted, and a case was filed.
The police reiterated its commitment to providing security for all candidates but issued a firm warning against “criminality and hooliganism.” It specifically cautioned candidates against deviating from agreed-upon campaign venues and holding rallies on roadsides or trading centres.
“We urge all political actors to conduct themselves with civility, adhere to the law, and maintain peace throughout the campaign period,” the statement concluded.
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