By TesoTalents News Desk
Buganda Kingdom Prime Minister (Katikkiro) Charles Peter Mayiga has issued a strong call for calm, professionalism, and non-violent policing as Uganda enters a tense campaign period marked by rising political activity across the country.
In a statement released Thursday on X, Katikkiro Mayiga warned that the continued use of excessive force—including tear gas, live bullets, and police dogs—is harming the country’s international image, heightening political friction, and undermining public trust in law enforcement.
“Political rallies are about excitement, not silence”
Mayiga reminded security agencies that political rallies, by their nature, are vibrant, emotional, and often noisy events. Expecting supporters to move quietly and in rigid formations, he argued, is unrealistic—especially in a country where motorcycles (boda bodas) remain the most common means of transportation.
“It’s unrealistic to ban processions of supporters. Political rallies are not prayer meetings to which worshippers go calmly. Political rallies are about excitement,” he stated.
Rising concern over deployment of police dogs
The Katikkiro’s remarks follow a week of public debate and criticism surrounding the Uganda Police Force’s deployment of canine units at National Unity Platform (NUP) gatherings.
Images and videos from Kampala, Masaka, and surrounding areas have shown sniffer dogs stationed at entrances of rallies, campaign meetings, and even along moving processions.
NUP leaders argue that the presence of police dogs is unnecessary and intimidating, describing it as part of a wider trend of “excessive policing” of opposition activities. Some supporters have expressed fear after reports of dogs being released to disperse crowds in isolated incidents.
Police, however, maintain that canine units are standard tools of crowd control and public safety used globally—primarily for detecting explosives, enhancing security, and protecting attendees.
“Bullets; tear gas; dogs! These make the Pearl of Africa bleed.”
Mayiga cautioned that while maintaining order is essential, the deployment of aggressive crowd-control tactics risks escalating tensions and eroding national unity.
He stressed that the constitution obligates security agencies to protect all Ugandans regardless of political affiliation.
“Bullets; tear gas; dogs! These make the Pearl of Africa bleed!” he warned.
Call for professionalism and non-partisan policing
The Katikkiro urged the Uganda Police Force to rely on professionalism, restraint, and fairness in their operations during the campaign season.
“I urge police and security agencies to keep law and order in a non-violent and non-partisan manner during this campaign period. Ensure supporters don’t harm others, but let them be.”
His appeal adds to growing national and international attention on how security forces handle political activities ahead of Uganda’s elections.
A critical moment for Uganda’s democracy
As the country moves deeper into campaign season, Mayiga’s message serves as an important reminder that the stability of Uganda depends on mutual respect between security forces and citizens.
Observers note that a calm, professional environment—rather than one dominated by force—will contribute to peaceful elections and strengthen democratic participation.
