President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reassured Ugandans that the country will experience peaceful elections, warning anyone attempting to disturb the peace that they will be dealt with decisively.

In a candid interaction with journalists at Mbale State Lodge on Saturday night, Museveni stressed that Uganda would not tolerate any attempts at violence or subversion, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 elections. The session, attended by senior National Resistance Movement (NRM) party leaders, focused on the party’s key campaign messages and achievements.

No room for disturbing peace

In response to concerns about potential unrest following the elections, Museveni assured the public that Uganda’s security forces were fully equipped and prepared to handle any threats.

“No one can play around here. You can try those games in other parts of Africa, but not in Uganda,” the President said, referring to the political chaos that has marred elections in other countries. “We have strong intelligence and security systems. Anybody who tries to disturb the peace, we shall deal with them swiftly.”

Museveni also emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening the judicial system to prevent the release of rioters on bail.

“We no longer tolerate impunity. Criminals who used to get bail easily are now being handled firmly,” he added. He pointed to the swift action taken against individuals involved in the recent cross-border disturbances near Uganda’s border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as an example of the government’s zero-tolerance approach.

Security for all

Responding to one journalist who had raised concerns about the potential security challenges during the election period, Museveni assured Ugandans that the government would not allow any groups or individuals to undermine the country’s stability.