The Uganda Police has urged members of the National Unity Platform (NUP) to collaborate with the District Security Committee beforehand to ensure comprehensive security planning.
During a press conference on September 11, 2023, SCP Enanga Fred, the Police Spokesperson, emphasised the importance of NUP members conducting their mobilisation activities in safe and secure environments.
“This will help the party and its delegates to exercise their constitutional rights peacefully while upholding the rule of law. It also furthers our commitment to protecting the public, amidst the existing threats,”Enanga said.
Enanga emphasises that public safety is of utmost importance to everyone, including our families, neighbours, and businesses.
“As you are all aware, the Kampala Metropolitan Area and other areas in the country, are characterised by heightened terror activities of the ADF. And given the nature of political mobilisation, where the NUP convoy moves at a slow pace, disrupting traffic and congestion, continued use of untrained guards, and exposure at the top of the motor vehicle, amidst thousands of supporters, well-wishers and onlookers, makes him an attractive and soft target for the terrorists,” Enanga added.
In his address, Enanga also reassured Ugandans of the Police’s commitment to protecting both their lives and the lives of visitors in the country.
He assured the Police would provide security for the safety of NUP leaders during town hall meetings. The number of participants would be limited and they would undergo checks to ensure their safety.
The Uganda Police acknowledges the concerns of NUP supporters regarding these processions. However, as the Joint Security Agencies, their primary concern lies in the potential terror threats that could jeopardise the safety of the NUP leader and his supporters.
The police are aware that there may be NUP bloggers and propagandists who will likely spread propaganda in response to the police’s appeal and instructions.