The Uganda Police Force has announced plans to recruit 100,000 temporary officers to help provide security during the 2026 general elections.
Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba said 10,000 constables have so far been taken on and are undergoing training, and that the recruitment of more is part of the wider plan to strengthen the force. If the exercise is completed, the police will have a total of about 165,000 officers. The new officers will serve as Special Police Constables (SPCs).
In previous elections, applicants were required to have at least a Primary Leaving Examination certificate and no criminal record. Training usually lasted one to two months before the recruits were deployed to polling stations. While most SPCs were equipped only with uniforms and batons, some were later retained, given more training, and assigned firearms to support regular officers.
The government has raised the monthly allowance for SPCs from Shs440,000 to Shs469,000. Police have also requested nearly Shs20 billion to cover salaries, following problems in 2021 when 50,000 SPCs protested after receiving less money than promised and refused to return equipment until payments were settled.
Byakagaba explained that the country has been divided into nine zones to manage election security and noted that 90 percent of the necessary equipment has already been secured. He said discipline and teamwork would be key for a peaceful vote and warned that those who attempt to cause disruptions would face firm action.
The Criminal Investigations Directorate has set up a special command centre for election-related crimes. Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao also said campaign processions will not be permitted. He explained that candidates will be expected to announce their venues, travel directly there, address supporters, and then leave. He added that on polling day, citizens should vote and return home.
