Uganda has been placed under heightened security as the country heads into today’s highly anticipated presidential election. Authorities have rolled out extensive measures aimed at maintaining law and order throughout the voting period.
The Uganda Police Force (UPF) said it has activated comprehensive security operations nationwide to safeguard voters, election officials, candidates, and other stakeholders before, during, and after the electoral exercise. The deployments are intended to ensure a calm and secure environment as citizens cast their ballots.
In a statement shared on its official X account, the UPF confirmed increased vigilance and widespread deployment of officers across the country.
Photographs accompanying the statement showed uniformed personnel conducting both foot and vehicle patrols along major highways, in urban centres, and within residential neighbourhoods. The images highlighted a visibly heightened police presence on the eve of voting.
The police said the security measures are aimed at preventing election-related violence, deterring criminal activity, and responding swiftly to any incidents that may disrupt the polls. Citizens have been urged to cooperate with security agencies and report any suspicious activities.
The election is being closely monitored both locally and internationally amid intense political competition and renewed calls for transparency. Incumbent President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, 81, is seeking a seventh term in office as the candidate of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), having governed Uganda since 1986.
His main rival is opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, contesting under the National Unity Platform (NUP). Other candidates include James Nathan Nandala Mafabi of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC); Mugisha Gregory Muntu Oyera of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT); Robert Kasibante of the National Peasants Party (NPP); Joseph Mabirizi of the Conservative Party (CP); Mubarak Munyagwa Sserunga of the Common Man’s Party; and Frank Bulira Kabinga of the Revolutionary People’s Party (RPP). All eight contenders were cleared by the Electoral Commission to participate.
The Electoral Commission has reiterated its readiness to conduct a credible and peaceful election, while security agencies have appealed for calm and restraint throughout the voting process.
Tensions have been heightened by the government’s decision to impose a nationwide internet shutdown ahead of the polls. On Tuesday, Bobi Wine condemned the move, describing it as a threat to democracy and an attempt to suppress communication during a critical period.
“The criminal regime has announced an internet shutdown throughout Uganda, beginning 6 pm today, ahead of the election on Thursday,” Wine said in a post on X, adding, “Uganda will be free.”
The shutdown, ordered by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), took effect on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 6 pm and will remain in place until further notice.
Observers and human rights groups have expressed concern, noting that election-related internet restrictions are increasingly being used in the region, often under the justification of maintaining public order.
Photos: Courtesy [New Vision Uganda], Uganda Police Force