Uganda Police Seeks Billions for Election Recruitment, Under Secretary Wunyi Appeals to Parliament Amidst Growing Security Concerns!
In anticipation of the 2026 general elections, the Uganda Police Force has made a substantial funding request to Parliament, painting a picture of a force grappling with resource constraints amidst growing security demands. Aggrey Wunyi, the Under Secretary of the Police, presented a plea for Shs157 billion to the Parliamentary Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs, primarily aimed at recruiting 10,000 probation police constables. Wunyi emphasized that this recruitment drive is crucial for maintaining law and order during the highly anticipated elections, stressing the force's commitment to ensuring a secure electoral process. However, the Under Secretary also raised concerns about potential budget shortfalls that could impede the police's operational capabilities, particularly in light of rising violent crime rates across Uganda’s 13 regions. The funding request extends beyond personnel. Wunyi outlined critical needs within the capital budget, including the acquisition of essential transport equipment. Specifically, the police are proposing the acquisition of 335 motorcycles to enhance mobility at the sub-county level and 80 double-cabin pickups for increased patrol coverage. The budget also seeks to address the acquisition of specialized transport equipment and the maintenance of vital CCTV systems. Furthermore, the police are pushing for the automation and evaluation of processes to improve efficiency. However, the current budget allocation of Shs160 billion falls significantly short of the requested Shs1 trillion, leaving numerous operational gaps. Additional acquisitions, including machinery and the overhauling of aircraft, are also under discussion. The Under Secretary also highlighted the need to address basic infrastructure and utility expenses. The force requires Shs23 billion for electricity and Shs4 billion for water, alongside plans to sink 20 boreholes in sub-counties to improve water access. They are also seeking $273 million to fulfill international contribution requirements to organizations like Interpol. Wunyi revealed that the police currently lack sufficient funding for day-to-day operations, a situation exacerbated by the growing needs of expanding urban and rural areas. He stressed that there are no legal impediments to requesting additional financial resources, underscoring the urgency of the situation. In an effort to promote sustainability and reduce long-term costs, the police are exploring innovative solutions. These include sinking boreholes for water, utilizing biogas for cooking, and installing solar panels for illumination. Wunyi’s appeal to Parliament highlights the delicate balance between ensuring security, managing budgetary constraints, and addressing the growing operational needs of the Uganda Police Force in the lead-up to the 2026 elections.
Uganda Police Seeks Shs157 Billion for Recruitment Ahead of 2026 Elections
