Published on 28/01/2025
Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has requested UGX 138.4 billion to oversee security during the 2026 general elections, sparking heated debate in Parliament.
Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju criticized the proposal, questioning why the Army is being involved in a task typically handled by the Uganda Police Force under electoral law.
During a January 23, 2025, meeting of Parliament’s Budget Committee and the Defence and Internal Affairs Committee, Ssemujju expressed concerns about potential overlaps and inefficiencies.
“The Army is asking for UGX138 billion for elections, while Police wants over UGX300 billion for the same activities. Elections are matters of law and order, which fall under Police. Is the Army’s involvement an indication that the Police has become too weak to handle internal security?” Ssemujju asked.
Ssemujju further questioned if the 2026 elections were being treated as a military operation, given the significant financial allocation requested by the Defence Ministry.
In response, Linos Ngopek, Vice Chairperson of the Defence Committee and Kibanda North MP, defended the request, emphasizing collaboration between security agencies during elections. “In past elections, Police often seeks manpower support from sister security agencies. The Defence Ministry’s request ensures readiness to assist Police when needed,” Ngopek said.
Rosette Byengoma, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, also defended the UGX138.4 billion request, explaining that the funds would be used to protect MPs and ensure logistical and operational preparedness during the election period. “This amount is necessary to secure the 2026 general elections, especially to provide logistical and operational support during campaigns and other activities,” she stated.
The meeting also touched on recent controversial tweets by Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces, in which he insulted MPs and made provocative comments about Uganda’s neighbors. Ssemujju pressed the Defence Committee leadership on their stance regarding these incidents.
“Are you not concerned that our defence sector is becoming a laughingstock? Today, he insults Ethiopia, tomorrow Kenya then the DRC. Now, he is abusing MPs. Does this not reflect mismanagement in a sector you oversee on behalf of Parliament?” Ssemujju asked.
Ngopek dismissed the issue, stating that the Committee had been informed that Muhoozi’s Twitter account was hacked. “The Ministry of Defence assures us that all borders are secure and the sector is functioning efficiently. We don’t rely on social media hearsay; we follow official communication channels,” he added.
The debate highlights lingering concerns about the militarization of election processes and the management of Uganda’s security sector. As the 2026 elections approach, Parliament will continue to scrutinize budget allocations and the roles of various security agencies to ensure accountability and adherence to the law.
