As Uganda enters another decisive electoral period, the conduct of security forces has once again become central to public debate. Elections are a constitutional moment when citizens freely express their will and evaluate who is best suited to lead them.
Yet this process is weakened when those mandated to ensure safety instead intimidate the very people they are supposed to protect. Excessive force, teargas, harassment, and undue interference do not strengthen national security; they erode public trust and undermine the legitimacy of our institutions.
A large portion of those participating in political activities today are young people. With Uganda’s youth making up the majority of the population, their voices are essential to shaping the country’s future. Many face unemployment, economic strain, and unfulfilled promises.
They possess limited material wealth and often feel corruption has taken away opportunities that should have been theirs. For them, political engagement is not merely a choice; it is an avenue for reclaiming hope.
Using intimidation against such a population does not produce order; it deepens frustration and widens the emotional distance between citizens and the State.
Throughout the campaign trail, National Unity Platform (NUP) party presidential flagbearer Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, has emphasized peaceful participation. His repeated message has been clear: supporters must view security officers as brothers and sisters, fellow citizens performing their duties.
His public appeals have consistently urged restraint, calmness, and non-violence even when provoked. This commitment to peace has been demonstrated on the ground.
In Masaka, Arua, Jinja, and several other areas, large crowds turned up to listen to his message of change, yet the gatherings remained orderly. There were no widespread reports of theft, disturbances, or violence. Attendees came for one purpose: to hear ideas, weigh alternatives, and make informed decisions about whom to entrust with the country’s future.
These peaceful turnouts challenge the narrative that large political crowds inevitably cause disorder. When citizens gather to listen, not to fight, it reinforces the notion that the population is not the problem; misconduct and unnecessary force often are.
The peaceful conduct of thousands across the country shows that Ugandans are capable of participating responsibly when they are allowed to do so without intimidation.
Yet occurrences such as the killing of Meshach Okello in Iganga cast a heavy shadow over the political atmosphere. Such actions must be condemned unequivocally. Every unnecessary loss of life weakens confidence in the institutions that are meant to serve and protect.
The responsible officer should be subjected to full legal accountability. Upholding justice is crucial not only for the victim’s community but also for restoring nationwide trust in law enforcement.
People in authority should know that communities under pressure become more aware, more determined, and more observant. In today’s digital age, this vigilance is amplified. Almost every public action is recorded, photographed, or shared in real time. One officer may fail to notice hundreds of people watching, but hundreds can clearly see and document what one officer does.
This is why discipline, professionalism, and respect for human rights are essential. The digital era makes accountability impossible to avoid.
One historical truth remains constant: sustainable stability cannot be achieved through intimidation. No government force has ever created long-term peace by suppressing a united population.
True peace is built when citizens trust that their rights will be upheld, regardless of their political views or social status. Security agencies must, therefore, demonstrate maturity, restraint, and fairness qualities that strengthen both the election process and the nation.
As Uganda prepares to choose its next leaders, intimidation must stop. Citizens must be allowed to participate freely, peacefully, and confidently. Justice for victims, respect for human dignity, and accountability for wrongdoing are not optional; they are prerequisites for a credible election. The country is watching, and so is the world.
Every action matters, and those in security forces/uniform have a unique opportunity to guide Uganda toward an election defined not by fear, but by fairness.