A total of 3,564 Election Special Police Constables in the Busoga North Police Region have passed out after completing their training.
The constables, comprising 988 females and 2,576 males, were cautioned against brutality, human rights violations, and any conduct that could undermine the electoral process.
The Busoga North Police Region covers Luuka, Kaliro, Buyende, and Kamuli districts. Uganda’s Ambassador to Germany, Stephen Mubiru, who represented the First Deputy Prime Minister, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, warned the constables to observe human rights and act within the law during the pass-out ceremony held at Busoga High School in Kamuli District on Thursday.
“You have undergone a mindset change and are now entrusted with a noble responsibility as a support force during the elections. Do not overstep your mandate or interfere in the electoral process,” Mubiru said. He urged the constables to carry out their duties with humanity, discipline, and professionalism to promote peaceful and credible elections.
Mubiru commended the Uganda Police Force for its commitment to capacity building and knowledge sharing and called for the strengthening of community policing. He encouraged the graduates to pursue further training and skills development to remain relevant and useful to their communities.
“Peace and security are the cornerstone of President Museveni’s achievements and a national export. Protect them, advance yourselves, and do not abuse the uniform. Remain professional at all times,” Mubiru cautioned.
The constables were trained to provide primary security at polling stations, supported by patrols and other security measures. Busoga North Regional Police Commander, Dickens Bindeeba, assured the public of a peaceful, orderly, and credible voting process.
“You are now under the Police Code of Conduct. Be disciplined, vibrant, and professional. Any misuse of the uniform will be dealt with firmly,” Bindeeba warned. He added that outstanding performance could give the constables an advantage when opportunities to join the force arise.
One of the trainees, Fiona Apedel, described the training as comprehensive and relevant. “This training was well-packaged and practical. We appeal to the Police Force to consider absorbing us into its ranks, just as it did with the former Local Administration Police, having already invested in our training,” she said.
The recruitment was conducted under Section 64 of the Police Act, empowering the Police to recruit personnel during periods of operational need. The constables will earn their December salary and may be considered for future recruitment opportunities based on performance.
Mr Bindeeba thanked the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for strategic guidance and logistical support. The Election Constables will be deployed to polling stations to provide primary security, supported by patrols and other security measures to ensure a peaceful, orderly, and credible voting process.