Butaleja DPC Promises Tight Security Ahead of NRM Primary Elections

By Ambrose Wanagoli 

Butaleja, Uganda – July 14, 2025 — With just days to the eagerly anticipated National Resistance Movement (NRM) primary elections scheduled for Thursday, July 17, the District Police Commander (DPC) of Butaleja, SP Jackson Maumbe, has assured residents and candidates of heightened security measures to ensure peaceful and transparent electoral proceedings.

Speaking during a preparatory meeting with all aspiring candidates at the office of the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) on Monday, Maumbe underscored the commitment of security agencies to prevent any form of electoral violence or disruption. The meeting, convened as part of the final security and coordination briefing, brought together key stakeholders to align on conduct and expectations for the polls.

The DPC revealed that security intelligence had identified plans by alleged militia groups affiliated with various candidates to disrupt the elections. “We are aware of groups being mobilized by some camps to cause chaos on polling day. Let this be a stern warning — we are watching, and we will not hesitate to act swiftly and decisively,” Maumbe warned.

In a move aimed at reducing tensions and maintaining order at polling stations, the Police have restricted candidates to only two campaign agents on polling day. “We will not allow large entourages or the use of bouncers. Candidates must comply with these regulations or face disqualification or arrest,” he emphasized.

The Police Commander further disclosed that over the weekend, a vehicle suspected to be connected to a violent campaign group was intercepted and impounded. The vehicle was found to be carrying sticks and stones, believed to be intended for use in intimidating or attacking opponents.

“So far, we have five suspects in custody who are directly linked to violent incidents that occurred during the recently concluded joint campaigns,” Maumbe reported.

Maumbe also issued a directive to any candidate or individual in possession of a firearm to declare it to the Police ahead of polling day. This, he noted, is a precautionary measure to prevent accidental discharges or deliberate misuse during the emotionally charged voting exercise.

“All firearms must be registered with the Police by Wednesday, July 16. Failure to do so will be treated as illegal possession and could lead to arrest,” the DPC cautioned.

In a strong rebuke to divisive rhetoric, Maumbe blamed a portion of the campaign-related violence on inflammatory language used by some candidates. “We noted that personal attacks and insults against fellow contestants were the root cause of many of the clashes witnessed during the joint campaigns,” he said. “We urge all candidates to maintain civility and uphold the NRM’s code of conduct.”

SP Maumbe concluded by assuring the people of Butaleja that the Uganda Police Force, working in collaboration with other security organs, is well-prepared to secure the election process from start to finish. He called upon the electorate to turn up in large numbers and vote peacefully without fear of intimidation or violence.

“Security will be tight in all sub-counties. We have deployed both uniformed and plain-clothed officers to ensure your safety. We ask for your cooperation and vigilance as we work to safeguard democracy,” Maumbe concluded.

The NRM primaries in Butaleja are expected to be hotly contested, given the district’s strategic political significance. As the countdown to the polls begins, all eyes will be on the security sector to uphold law and order, ensuring that the will of the people prevails in a peaceful environment.