The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abbas Byakagaba, has strongly assured Ugandans that there will be no insecurity as the country prepares to hold elections in 2026. Speaking during the pass-out ceremony of 42 senior police and prison officers at the Police Senior Command and Staff College in Bwebajja, Wakiso District, the IGP emphasized the readiness of the police and other security agencies to deliver peaceful elections. The ceremony was presided over by the State Minister for Internal Affairs, Gen. David Muhoozi.
“I want to assure everybody in Uganda and abroad that police and other security agencies are ready to deliver the most peaceful elections come 2026,” said Byakagaba. He noted that delivering peaceful elections is a key agenda of his leadership and that the force is well aware of crimes that typically occur during election periods. He particularly mentioned transnational and digital crimes but assured that ongoing training programs would equip officers to effectively curb these threats.
The IGP also highlighted plans to address the sociological needs of police officers, especially those in lower ranks. “I am planning to improve accommodation, provide complete uniforms, and improve the feeding of lower-ranking officers in the force,” he said. Additionally, he revealed that improvements in the force’s CCTV network, wages, and other logistical aspects are also on his agenda.
Regarding the implementation of the Sub-county Policing Model as directed by the President, Byakagaba stated that about 80% of the necessary deployments have been completed. He also emphasized the importance of resource mobilization and proper utilization, saying, “We have utilized the resources as they are mobilized. Our President told us to cut our hairs following the shape of our heads.”
Gen. David Muhoozi, while presiding over the event, urged the newly passed-out officers to apply the skills acquired during the course to enhance the country’s security. “You have acquired skills from this training; make sure you add value to this country in terms of security,” said Muhoozi. He further encouraged the officers to work closely with the population, stressing the importance of knowing their role and responsibility in ensuring national security. Gen. Muhoozi concluded by stating that the Ministry of Internal Affairs is committed to working on salary increments for all officers.
