Masindi, Uganda – The Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, has underscored the critical role that the police play in ensuring peaceful elections by enforcing law and order.
Justice Byabakama emphasized that the police are essential partners in the electoral process, and their professionalism and impartiality are crucial in guaranteeing the integrity of elections.
The EC Chairperson made these remarks on Thursday April, 17th 2025, while delivering a lecture to Probationer Police Constables undergoing initial training at the Police Training School in Kabalye, Masindi District.
The lecture focused on the role of the police in the electoral process and highlighted the importance of their adherence to the law and maintenance of order during elections.
Justice Byabakama noted that the police have a responsibility to ensure that all stakeholders, including voters, candidates, and party agents, are able to participate in the electoral process without fear or intimidation.
He emphasized that the police must remain impartial and professional in their dealings with all parties involved in the electoral process.
“As officers, you are strong and essential partners in the electoral process, and your impartiality is crucial in guaranteeing the integrity of elections. You have a responsibility to ensure that voters, candidates, and agents can participate in the electoral process without fear or intimidation. To achieve this, it is imperative that you remain impartial and professional in your dealings with all parties involved,” said Justice Byabakama.
The EC Chairperson also highlighted the importance of the police in preventing and managing election-related conflicts.
He encouraged the probationers to be vigilant and proactive in identifying and addressing potential flashpoints that could disrupt the peace during elections.
The lecture comes at a critical time when Uganda is preparing for the 2026 general elections, with the training of Probationer Police Constables being part of efforts to build the capacity of security agencies to manage elections effectively.