The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abas Byakagaba, today appeared before the Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights, chaired by Hon. Ouma Willy, to address matters concerning human rights observance and policing in Uganda.
The IGP was accompanied by the Top Police Management, who joined him in the engagement with the Committee.
In his remarks, the IGP reaffirmed that respect for human rights remains at the core of policing and a fundamental responsibility of the Uganda Police Force.
“The issue of human rights remains core in policing. Human rights observance is a constitutional duty enshrined under Article 221 of our Constitution. We are consistently embedding human rights standards into our operational doctrines and tactical field instructions,” the IGP noted.
He acknowledged that, while the vast majority of police officers carry out their duties professionally, some individuals within the Force may violate the established code of conduct.
“We acknowledge that some individuals within our ranks may violate the code of conduct. I assure this Committee that errant officers are handled in accordance with our internal disciplinary procedures, as well as other relevant criminal laws of Uganda. We maintain a zero-tolerance doctrine towards impunity, torture, or any form of high-handedness,” he said.
The IGP further encouraged Members of Parliament and members of the public to continue raising concerns whenever they encounter excesses or gaps in policing. He noted that such feedback is critical in strengthening accountability and improving service delivery.
“I implore the Honourable Committee members and the general public to remain free to point out our excesses for immediate redress. Feedback on administrative gaps or operational high-handedness helps us investigate, rectify mistakes and discipline officers involved,” he said.
The IGP also informed the Committee that the Uganda Police Force, together with sister security agencies, remains committed to working closely with Parliament and other stakeholders to serve the people within the confines of the Constitution and the law.
Under his leadership, he noted, the Force will continue to step up efforts towards crime prevention rather than merely responding to crime, while ensuring that the law is enforced with a human face.
He further assured the Committee that the Uganda Police Force remains firmly committed to its core mandate while recognising that the welfare of its personnel is equally paramount.
“I want to affirm our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the constitutional rights of all citizens while maintaining law and order,” the IGP affirmed.
