Kampala Metropolitan Police has assured the public of a secure and peaceful environment ahead of Thursday’s by-election in Kawempe North constituency.
The Electoral Commission organized the by-election following the death of the directly elected Member of Parliament for Kawempe North constituency Muhammad Ssegirinya.
The Commission will also fill the vacancy for the City Division directly elected Councilor for Kazo Angola A, Angola ward in Kawempe Division on the same day in eight polling stations.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson Patrick Onyango noted that the general security situation in the country and Kampala Metropolitan Police area is normal and calm, apart from the ongoing political tension due to the by-election.
He noted that to mitigate potential challenges, security agencies have prepared early to ensure that the elections are held within the confines of the law. Security agencies have been put on high alert to counter civil disobedience and any election violence.
“There will be mobile forces responsible for foot and motorized patrols to attend to emergencies,” said Onyango
He said the patrol groups will comprise of Field Force Unit, General Duty Police, Military Police, Uganda Peoples Defence Forces, and 999 patrol vehicles.
Intelligence agencies have mapped out hot spots, and security agencies will deploy in these areas to ensure a peaceful election.
“All Forces deployed during this operation will demonstrate high level of discipline and professionalism throughout the exercise,” said Onyango
The police have urged voters to come out in large numbers and exercise their constitutional rights.