We have noticed that some political actors and groups have released road-maps for public consultations online, and went on calling delegates and supporters to take part in these consultations. We would like to remind them that it is a requirement under the EC guidelines, for all aspiring Presidential Candidates to formally notify the police. At the moment we are carefully monitoring all politicians planning on holding consultations to ensure they do not flout these guidelines.
Based on recent experience, we saw the negative impact of illegal processions and assemblies, were serious threats to public order and public safety, where witnessed in Kasangati, Jinja and Soroti. As a result we would like to ask all politicians and their organizers to work with the police to achieve their objective of consultations.
As the public would expect, we continue gathering intelligence on all potential risks and threats to public safety. We have plans to respond proportionately, in the face of any violent situation by using minimum but necessary force that may include the use of teargas to disperse and arrest the offenders.
All our Territorial Commanders have been reminded to train and equip our officers to maintain public order and to further have effective plans of mobilizing officers within their territorial jurisdiction or across territories where necessary.
We pledge to continue policing all lawful and peaceful assemblies. We also call upon the public to help us fight illegal protests by being vigilant and reporting any suspicious behavior.
CP Fred Enanga
Police Spokesperson
27th Jan. 2020
