Deputy Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding has broken the silence with a public expression of remorse over the brutal conduct of soldiers during the recent Kawempe North by-election.
The apology delivered on behalf of the Ministry of Defence acknowledged what he termed as an “operational mistake” that left journalists, civilians and members of the public at the mercy of unrestrained military aggression.
“We extend our heartfelt apologies to the people of Uganda, the media fraternity, and all those affected by the unfortunate incidents that transpired during the Kawempe by-election,” Lt. Gen. Okiding stated.
“It was an operational mistake, one that does not reflect the values of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).”
The by-election was marred by a heavy military presence that quickly spiraled into chaos. Viral videos showed armed personnel aggressively dispersing crowds, violently manhandling journalists and leaving several individuals injured.
The shocking footage ignited widespread condemnation from human rights activists, media houses and the general public.
While the military’s gesture of remorse is being lauded by some as a step in the right direction, others are less optimistic.
Uganda has a long and troubled history of security forces clashing with civilians during politically charged events. To opposition, this apology feels like yet another hollow PR stunt.
Lt. Gen. Okiding assured the public that an investigation is underway to identify those responsible while appearing before Parliament’s Defence Committee to present the ministry’s policy statements for the 2025/26 financial year.
He responded to pointed concerns raised by Lwemiyaga County MP Theodore Ssekikubo, who demanded updates on disciplinary measures.
“Those were operational mistakes that occurred out of provocation. It is not our doctrine, but among 1,000 soldiers, there will always be those who struggle to control their patience.
However, their reaction did not warrant such a degree of force,” Okiding explained.
He further disclosed that a disciplinary committee has been constituted and that some of the implicated officers have already been arrested.
“We have taken action and some of the personnel involved have been apprehended. A committee has been constituted to carry out investigations,” he said.
The events in Kawempe North have left a permanent stain on Uganda’s democratic process. Journalists, opposition candidates and their supporters were among the hardest hit.
Media workers were harassed, arrested and physically assaulted in an apparent bid to stifle coverage of the election. Equipment was damaged and the targeted attacks sent shockwaves through the journalistic community.
Opposition supporters, particularly those aligned with the National Unity Platform (NUP), were not spared. Reports indicated that soldiers forcibly ejected NUP supporters from polling stations and beat others who attempted to witness the voting process.
Despite Lt. Gen. Okiding’s assurances, Uganda’s track record on holding security personnel accountable remains questionable.
Similar incidents in the past have often ended with little to no follow-through. Many fear that this latest apology while commendable in its rarity, may suffer the same fate.
The fallout from Kawempe North has already led to a chilling effect on media coverage with several outlets imposing self-censorship on security matters. This not only limits public access to crucial information but also undermines democratic principles.
