Over the past four decades, Uganda has projected an image of being the most insecure and violent in the region thanks to the power-greedy despot octogenarian Museveni.
Recently, there is also a growing number of violent incidents, political crackdowns and organized criminal activities suggest that public security is becoming an increasing concern for many Ugandans.
Uganda’s security agencies reported that at least 2500 people were killed during the first quarter of the year alone, with authorities warning of increases in murders, aggravated robberies, and organized criminal activity.
Relatedly, the United States of America (USA) ๐บ๐ธ has placed Uganda under its highest Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory. ๐บ๐ธ๐บ๐ฌ
USA warns Americans against visiting the country due to concerns over crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and the recent Ebola outbreak.
We have also witnessed several high-profile incidents that have shaken public confidence. In January, at least 97 people were killed during clashes following the disputed general election, as security forces confronted opposition supporters. The unrest was accompanied by arrests, internet restrictions, and heightened military deployment across Kampala and other areas.
Beyond politically related violence, ordinary Ugandans continue to face disturbing criminal attacks.
In April, a horrific mass stabbing at a nursery school in Kampala claimed the lives of four young children, exposing concerns over public safety and emergency response. Authorities later arrested and convicted the suspect.
Human rights organizations have also expressed concern over what they describe as an increasingly restrictive security environment. Reports cite arbitrary arrests, intimidation of journalists, suppression of protests, and heavy handed treatment of opposition figures, raising questions about the balance between national security and civil liberties.
Crime statistics tell only part of the story. Many Ugandans increasingly report intense fear of armed robberies, kidnappings, home invasions, rape and violent assaults, particularly in urban centres.
International security assessments similarly note that while overall reported crime has fluctuated, homicides and robberies remain significant threats.
We can no longer sustaining investor confidence and protecting citizens will require stronger policing, improved intelligence, accountable security institutions, and greater respect for the rule of law – all which Dictator Museveni deliberately destroyed.
Restoring public trust will be just as important as reducing crime statistics. The true measure of national security is not only the absence of conflict, but whether ordinary citizens can go about their daily lives without fear.
Enough is Enough with Musevenism!