Security Agencies Silent on JAT’s Deployment as Opposition Faces Brutality in Kawempe North By-election

The Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) and the Uganda Police Force (UPF) have remained tight-lipped about who authorized the deployment of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JAT), which has been accused of terrorizing opposition supporters during the ongoing Kawempe North by-election campaigns.

UPDF Spokesperson, Acting Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, and Police Spokesperson, ACP Kituuma Rusoke, have not confirmed whether JAT was deployed under army orders or at the police’s request.

When asked by URN about JAT’s deployment in Kawempe, both Maj. Gen. Kulayigye and Counter-Terrorism Director Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) David Wasswa Ssengendo stated that it operates as a joint force. Kulayigye justified JAT’s presence, citing the volatile situation in the area.

“Do you think the situation in Kawempe is normal? Haven’t you seen videos of stones being thrown at security officers? Are you not aware that Kyagulanyi was advised to use Gayaza Road but chose to defy?” he questioned.

However, Kulayigye’s response does not indicate any extraordinary intelligence that warranted JAT’s deployment. JAT consists of personnel from the police, external and internal security agencies, and Defence Intelligence and Security (DIS), formerly the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI).

AIGP Wasswa redirected URN to Kituuma, who reiterated that JAT was in Kawempe for joint security operations. However, Rusoke, citing the sensitivity of JAT’s work, declined to share further details and even expressed uncertainty about whether police personnel were involved in the task force.

JAT’s actions have reportedly led to severe injuries among National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters, with many sustaining broken limbs. The NUP leadership is compiling a list of victims as they prepare to take legal action against JAT and other security agencies.

The unrest caused by JAT has prompted the Electoral Commission, led by Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, to meet with the Director of Police Operations Service, AIGP Frank Mwesigwa, to discuss measures for ensuring a peaceful electoral process.

Mwesigwa praised the collaboration with the Electoral Commission and assured that security forces are prepared to prevent disruptions and chaos at polling stations, campaign events, and the tally center.

Meanwhile, the police have urged the Electoral Commission to further engage political actors on adhering to campaign guidelines throughout the electoral process.