As you are all aware, the nomination of presidential aspirants for the 2021, General Elections will take place on the 2nd -3rd, November 2020, at the cricket grounds, Kyambogo. So far, 10 (ten) Presidential Aspirants are expected to participate in the two –day nomination exercise. The safety and security of all the aspirants, other stakeholders and the successful conduct of the exercise, remains a top priority for the Joint Task Forces.
The public should know that there is no credible threat directed towards the presidential nominations. However, we do consider the nominations a potential target for threats and other vulnerabilities that could significantly affect the entire exercise. These include acts of civil disobedience such as sabotage, street violence strikes and demonstrations, defiance campaigns, provoking security forces into violent confrontations, intimidation and minor criminal activity such as; simple robbery, looting, vandalism and pick pocketing. Other crimes of extra ordinary nature include, terrorism and cybercrimes.
We would like to inform and reassure all the Presidential Aspirants that their safety and security is guaranteed. The Joint Security Agencies have spent considerable time planning for the nominations, and we do feel confident about countering all forms of threats and security hazards. In our security master plan, we have developed a multi-agency tactical response; before, during and after the nominations, which involves a mix of highly visible and non-visible resources, deployed in and around the venue, to detect, deter and disrupt any range of criminal activity.
In addition, we have specialist teams at selected locations, others patrolling in rapid reaction formations, CCTV monitoring teams, dedicated K9 teams, crowd dispersal teams, to counter all forms of illegal activities and violent demonstrations, that could compromise public safety and public security.
For those political actors and groups that are still defiant and mobilizing Boda Boda riders and militias onto the streets; and ferrying supporters from upcountry into illegal processions and rallies; we are closely monitoring them. Therefore, any Presidential Aspirant who mobilizes boda bodas for a procession risks being arrested including those boda boda riders. We have plans to respond proportionately, in the face of violent crime, which may include the use of teargas to disperse these violent groups and arrest the culprits for prosecution.
We therefore, urge all individual and political actors to cooperate with us, for a peaceful and secure nomination exercise.
J.M OKOTH OCHOLA (ESQ)
INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE
01. 11. 2020.
