The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has confirmed that the armed men causing unrest in Kawempe are part of their ranks, deployed to assist the police after security forces were reportedly overwhelmed by National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters.
UPDF spokesperson, Acting Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, explained that the soldiers were sent in after alleged hostility from civilians triggered a forceful response from the military.
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“[The soldiers] were deployed to support the police in managing the situation when NUP supporters became too overwhelming,” Kulayigye stated.
This admission follows weeks of denial from security agencies regarding the involvement of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JAT), a black-clad unit accused of human rights abuses, particularly against political figures in Kawempe.
The group’s actions have raised concerns about their apparent impunity, fueling speculation that state security agencies were either unaware of or complicit in their operations.
Erias Lukwago, president of the People Power Front (PFF), voiced his alarm over the JAT’s presence in Kawempe, suggesting that mounting public pressure may have forced the UPDF to acknowledge its role.
“The UPDF had no option but to admit that JAT soldiers were part of their ranks. The pressure from the public became too intense for continued denial,” Lukwago said.
Maj. Gen. Kulayigye defended the deployment, stressing that the police had requested military intervention.
“The police were overwhelmed by the situation. They called for our support when NUP members became too numerous, and we had to step in,” he explained.
Despite concerns over the JAT’s aggressive tactics, the UPDF insists that the unit was lawfully established and will continue to assist police when necessary.
“The JAT will be deployed whenever the police are under siege,” Kulayigye affirmed, urging the public to cooperate with law enforcement to avoid further escalations involving the unit.
However, the JAT’s return has sparked fear, especially among politicians, with concerns that the group could play a significant role in the 2026 elections.
Lukwago remains skeptical of the JAT’s legitimacy, demanding a full investigation into its alleged human rights violations.
“Ugandans have every right to question the legality and purpose of the JAT. A transparent investigation into their actions is crucial,” he insisted.
In response, the UPDF has pledged to investigate the conduct of JAT personnel in Kawempe and determine whether disciplinary action is warranted.
As the situation unfolds, many Ugandans are left questioning the future role of the JAT and its implications for security and politics ahead of the 2026 elections.
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