The Uganda Police Force has cautioned voters against lingering at polling stations, warning that anyone defying security directives will be removed.

With the 2026 general elections just days away, in which Ugandans will elect leaders from the presidency to local government positions, both the police and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have intensified warnings about potential violence during and after polling and result announcements.

The warning follows calls by National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine, and other opposition leaders for voters to remain at polling stations after voting to guard against alleged vote rigging.

The Electoral Commission and security agencies, however, have consistently condemned this practice, stressing that it could disrupt polling, provoke violence, and destabilize the electoral process.

Among senior security officials issuing similar warnings is the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who recently cautioned voters against lingering at polling stations and threatened action against anyone causing disorder.

Addressing journalists at Police Headquarters in Naguru, the Inspector General of Police, AIGP Ubaldo Bamunoba, who also serves as the Police Chief Political Commissar, reiterated that voters must cast their ballots and leave immediately.

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