The Inspector General of Police, Abbas Byakagaba, has appointed nine senior police officers to head newly established Electoral Policing Zones across Uganda, as part of a broader effort to strengthen security ahead of the 2026 general elections.
In a statement issued on Wednesday from Police Headquarters in Naguru, the Uganda Police Force explained that the creation of these zones is intended to enhance coordination of security operations and ensure a peaceful, lawful and orderly electoral process across the country.
Police Spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke said the appointments are part of a wider operational strategy aimed at proactively managing election-related security threats and safeguarding citizens during both political party primaries and the national polls.
Among those appointed is AIGP Moses Kafero Kabugo, who will command the Busoga Zone with headquarters in Jinja.
His jurisdiction includes Busoga North, Busoga East, Kiira, and Sezibwa.
AIGP Stephen Tanui will lead the Northern Zone, based in Gulu, overseeing areas such as Aswa West, Aswa East, West Nile, and North West Nile.
Other senior officers have been deployed to various zones including Karamoja, Kyoga, Central, Albertine, Kampala Metropolitan, South Western, and Rwenzori, each responsible for managing security in specific regional clusters.
This move marks a shift in the Uganda Police Force’s approach to election security, reflecting an increased focus on regional responsiveness and visible presence in areas prone to electoral tension.
The newly appointed zonal commanders are expected to work closely with local leaders and other security agencies to maintain peace and order throughout the electoral period.
According to the police, these deployments aim to ensure that all Ugandans can participate in the democratic process free from fear, intimidation, or violence.
By Ben Musanje
16th July 2025
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