By Agency
The Uganda Police Force has warned Ugandans against voting and lingering around polling stations, saying those who defy security directives will be forced to leave.
With days to the 2026 general elections, in which Ugandans will elect leaders from the presidency to local government, both the police and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have intensified warnings over possible violence during and after polling and result declarations.
The warning comes amid calls by the National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu alias Bobi Wine, and other opposition leaders urging voters to remain at polling stations after voting to guard against alleged vote rigging.
However, the Electoral Commission and security agencies have consistently condemned the practice, warning that it could disrupt polling and trigger violence, thereby destabilising the electoral process.
Among senior security officials issuing similar warnings is the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who recently cautioned voters against lingering at polling stations and threatened action against anyone causing disorder.
Addressing journalists at Police Headquarters in Naguru, the Inspector General of Police, AIGP Bamunoba Ubaldo, who also serves as the police Chief Political Commissar, reiterated that voters must cast their ballots and leave immediately. Bamunoba added that voters must leave polling premises when directed by security personnel.
