Lira City, 28th September 2025 – The Uganda Police Force has issued a strong warning following intelligence reports of a planned riot by supporters of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), allegedly triggered by the absence of Jimmy Michael James Akena’s name on the 2026 presidential ballot.
According to a statement released by Superintendent of Police (SP) Patrick Jimmy Okema, the North Kyoga Regional Police received credible intelligence indicating that some UPC supporters plan to gather and begin protests on 29th September 2025, starting in Lira City before spreading to other districts in the North Kyoga region.
The report suggests that the supporters intend to assemble at the residence of the UPC party president, located in Senior Quarters, Lira City, which has been identified as the collection point for the gathering.
“We have not received any official notification or communication from the organizers, nor any response to that effect to the Office of the Inspector General of Police. This makes the planned activity illegal in nature,” said SP Okema.
He reassured the public that the region remains peaceful and that security forces are fully prepared to handle any disruptions to public order.
“Anyone attempting to disrupt the peace will be dealt with as the law may require,” Okema stated.
The North Kyoga police have called upon all law-abiding citizens to remain calm and continue with their normal duties, while being vigilant and reporting any suspicious behavior to the nearest police station.
“We urge citizens to respect the rule of law. If anyone is found mobilizing for unlawful protests, they will be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted before a court of law,” he added.
All territorial police commands under the North Kyoga region have been instructed to remain alertand respond swiftly to any incidents that may arise.
The police have emphasized their commitment to maintaining peace, law, and order in the region as the nation prepares for the upcoming 2026 elections.
