By Peter Luzinda
The Uganda Police Force (UPF) Spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke has revealed that the force has banned processions for candidates, stressing that candidates and their supporters should meet at the campaign venues.
“Any organization of a campaign program should involve collaboration with key stakeholders, especially the police and the electoral commission, to ensure coordinated and harmonious efforts. Follow agreed-upon protocols to avoid collusion and conflicts; we do not want to see rival candidate supporters fighting among themselves” Kituuma said.
He added, “Processions are prohibited, candidates should find their supporters at the campaign grounds”.
ACP Kituuma made the revelations on Monday as National Unity Platform (NUP) Presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu, who has been traversing the country side with mammoth crowds campaigned in Kawempe.
Kituuma further urged candidates to work with the police to regulate crowds that may attract security risks and accidents.
“Traffic regulations continue to be violated persistently, including overloading of motor vehicles, which is a concern….. Coordination with traffic police, emergency medical services, and the fire brigade is essential to maintain safety and security during campaign events” he said.
Kituuma warned that the use of ambulances as lead cars for candidates has been prohibited, warning the drivers against their misuse.
“We condemn all forms of violence and have observed some instances of election posters being defaced, such acts are condemned, and offenders will be prosecuted” he said.
He added, “We have also observed cyber-crimes being committed in connection with the campaigns; those responsible should know the law is clear and punishments severe”.
Kituuma noted that the force has registered cases of people disguising themselves in party T-shirts and paraphernalia to rob people of phones, cash, and other valuables warning of immediate arrest if one is found violating campaign regulations.
“Any offenders will be held individually responsible. If not arrested at the scene, security personnel will pursue them at a later convenient time” he said.
Kituuma noted that the new set of guidelines is aimed at promoting orderly and peaceful campaigns across the country as presidential, parliamentary, local government, and Special Interest Group (SIG) activities continue nationwide.