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Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has issued a stern warning to politicians, their supporters, and the general public ahead of the 2026 general elections. He emphasized that any form of violence, intimidation, or disruption will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Gen Muhoozi said that security agencies are fully prepared to take decisive action to protect citizens, maintain peace, and uphold the country’s stability during this crucial period.
The warning came during a decoration ceremony for newly promoted Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officers held on Monday at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya. The event gathered senior military leaders, newly promoted officers, and their families, highlighting both the achievements of the officers and the ongoing role of the military in national security.
Speaking at the ceremony, Gen Muhoozi stressed that Uganda is currently in an election period, and it is the clear and urgent responsibility of the armed forces to safeguard peace. He emphasized that ensuring security during such times is not optional or secondary, but rather a fundamental duty of every member of the UPDF and other security agencies across the country.
He noted that all security forces must remain fully alert throughout the election period. Any attempts to disrupt peace, create panic among voters, or incite disorder will be dealt with promptly and according to the law. Gen Muhoozi warned that the forces are prepared to respond swiftly to any situation that threatens the safety of the people.
Gen Muhoozi also directed his message to political actors, urging them to strictly adhere to electoral rules and guidelines. He highlighted that peaceful elections can only be achieved if politicians cooperate with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and the security agencies to ensure that the process runs smoothly and transparently.
According to Gen Muhoozi, the elections should be a time for Ugandans to freely exercise their democratic rights, not a period marked by fear or intimidation. He emphasized that leaders who genuinely care for their country must prioritize national interest and stability over personal or political gain, stressing that Uganda’s peace is non-negotiable.
He specifically appealed to voters to conduct themselves responsibly during the election. Gen Muhoozi urged citizens to cast their ballots and immediately leave polling stations, dismissing notions that large crowds are necessary to “protect votes.” He explained that vote counting and tallying will be conducted transparently in the presence of candidates’ agents, observers, and the media, ensuring fairness without risking public unrest.
“There is no need for people to hang around polling stations or gather in large numbers,” Gen Muhoozi said. He added that excessive crowds can easily create tension and may be exploited by individuals or groups with malicious intentions, potentially turning an ordinary voting day into a period of chaos.
He reassured the public that the UPDF, along with other security agencies, will maintain round-the-clock vigilance to prevent any attempts by reactionary groups to exploit the election period for political or personal gain. He stressed that the forces are trained, prepared, and fully committed to keeping the country safe.
Gen Muhoozi reminded Ugandans that peace and security are the very foundation of the nation’s social and economic progress. He noted that development cannot occur in an environment where citizens live in fear or where political disputes lead to violence, emphasizing that stability and prosperity go hand in hand.
He warned that peace should never be taken for granted, citing examples from other countries where political competition has degenerated into conflict and instability. He stressed that Ugandans must learn from these experiences and protect the hard-earned peace that has allowed the country to develop steadily over the years.
Beyond the elections, Gen Muhoozi highlighted the broader mission of the UPDF in defending Uganda’s sovereignty. He stressed that protecting the country from both internal and external threats remains the military’s core responsibility, and that this mission continues regardless of the political calendar.
He drew attention to the UPDF’s regional role, including ongoing operations against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Gen Muhoozi also mentioned Uganda’s efforts in fighting Al-Shabaab militants in Somalia, demonstrating that the country plays a significant role in ensuring regional stability beyond its borders.
In addition, he cited UPDF deployments in South Sudan and the Central African Republic, emphasizing that Uganda contributes to peacekeeping and conflict resolution in the region. These missions, he said, show that the UPDF is not only focused on national security but also committed to regional peace and humanitarian efforts.
Turning to the newly promoted officers, Gen Muhoozi reminded them that their elevation in rank carries increased responsibility and expectations. He said the nation has entrusted them with authority and confidence, and that they must now lead with greater integrity, discipline, and humility to uphold the faith placed in them by both their superiors and the public.
He urged the officers to serve as role models for their soldiers, stressing that true leadership begins with personal example. Officers are expected to uphold the highest ethical standards, maintain discipline within their units, and always prioritize the safety and welfare of the people they serve.
Gen Muhoozi also recognized the critical role of military families, noting that the success and effectiveness of soldiers are often supported by the sacrifices and patience of their loved ones. He stated that the government is making efforts to improve soldiers’ welfare, including initiatives to enhance housing, education, and healthcare services for military families.
He revealed that the construction of a modern defence headquarters is underway and is expected to be completed by 2026. This facility, he said, will not only improve operational efficiency but also serve as a symbol of the nation’s commitment to a professional and modern defence force capable of protecting Uganda’s sovereignty and interests.
At the same event, Chief of Joint Staff Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba stressed that promotions in the UPDF are earned strictly on merit, based on discipline, integrity, and performance. He reminded officers that with higher rank comes greater responsibility, requiring them to lead with fairness, dedication, and a strong sense of duty toward both the nation and their soldiers.
As Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections, Gen Muhoozi concluded by reassuring citizens that the UPDF will remain professional, neutral, and committed to guaranteeing peace across the country. He emphasized that every Ugandan should feel safe to vote freely, without fear or intimidation, so that the nation’s democratic process can proceed in an orderly and transparent manner.
Gen Muhoozi also addressed recent tensions between political leaders, implicitly referring to statements by opposition figures like Bobi Wine, urging all parties to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric that could incite unrest.
He emphasized that while political debate and campaigning are part of a healthy democracy, no one has the right to provoke violence or threaten the safety of citizens. He called on leaders to set a positive example, reminding them that their words carry weight and can influence the behavior of their supporters, especially during such a sensitive electoral period.
