Kiira Regional Police Tightens Election Security Ahead of Youth Polls

The Kiira Regional Police Command has stepped up security measures ahead of the upcoming elections, following a Regional Joint Operations Command (JOC) meeting held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at Jinja City Hall. The meeting, chaired by Jinja City Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Richard Gulume, focused on strategic security planning for all three phases of election policing—before, during, and after the polls.

Gulume praised the joint security effort exhibited during the recent NRM grassroots elections and issued a stern warning to political candidates against forming illegal militia groups, such as the so-called Gaali, which he described as a threat to public order and national security. 

He also cautioned security officers to remain vigilant against blackmail or character assassination by political hopefuls. "No one can operate in isolation when it comes to securing an electoral process," Gulume stated, urging strict adherence to the rule of law and consistent collaboration with the Electoral Commission (EC). 

Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Kanyesigye, Cantonment Commander for Busoga Sub-region, called for frequent joint security reviews and operational updates to bolster preparedness. He underscored the value of Regional JOC meetings in ensuring coordinated and responsive action among all stakeholders. He also warned political leaders and members of the public against hate speech, noting that divisive rhetoric undermines democratic values and threatens national unity.

Charles Nsaba, the Regional Police Commander for Kiira Region, emphasized inter-agency cooperation in ensuring a peaceful election period. He directed District Police Commanders (DPCs) to prevent any unlawful assemblies or processions and hold divisional JOC meetings for regular security assessments.

He assured stakeholders of a strong security presence, particularly during the village-level youth elections slated for Thursday, June 19, 2025. Deo Natukunda, Regional Returning Officer for the Busoga Sub-region, confirmed that the EC is midway through its 2025/2026 electoral roadmap, which includes district and regional engagements and massive civic education campaigns. 

He noted that no polling station would host more than 600 voters, and called on security agencies to ensure full coverage and support. Natukunda also acknowledged that technical glitches during nomination periods often lead to complaints and petitions, but reassured the public of the EC’s commitment to reducing such issues. 

Flavia Nakasi, the Jinja City Returning Officer, warned that any youth candidate found to have altered their National Identification Number (NIN) or date of birth on their national ID would be arrested and prosecuted. "The EC’s digital systems do not allow alteration of personal identification details," she stressed. Nakasi revealed that Jinja City has 141 villages, all of which will participate in the upcoming youth elections.