The Kampala Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Umar Lule Mawiya has assured Ugandans and foreign guests of maximum security during President Yoweri Museveni’s swearing-in ceremony scheduled for May 12 at Kololo Independence Grounds.
Speaking during an interview ahead of the event, Mawiya said security agencies had intensified preparations to ensure a peaceful and secure environment throughout the ceremony.
“As deputy chairperson of the national organising committee, I want to assure all guests that we shall maintain maximum security. We are working closely with all security agencies to ensure a peaceful and secure environment on that day,” Mawiya said.
He said security arrangements involve the Uganda Police Force, Military Police, the Special Forces Command, Anti-Terrorism Police, the Air Force, Traffic Police, and intelligence agencies.
Mawiya warned individuals who may attempt to disrupt the ceremony that security agencies would respond swiftly. He noted that the event is expected to attract foreign dignitaries, including presidents, vice-presidents, prime ministers, and ambassadors from different countries. [WATCH VIDEO]
He also commended the national organising committee, chaired by Yunus Kakande, the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the President, for coordinating preparations for the ceremony.
According to Mawiya, all the necessary logistics for the event have already been provided.
He called upon Ugandans, especially supporters of the National Resistance Movement, to attend the ceremony in large numbers. He praised Museveni for promoting peace, stability, and economic transformation since taking power in 1986.
Mawiya also urged motorists to follow traffic guidelines during the event, warning that several roads leading to Kololo would be temporarily closed for security reasons.
He said motorists would be required to use alternative routes as directed by traffic police officers.
Addressing concerns about flooding during the rainy season, Mawiya said Kololo’s location on elevated ground reduces the risk of flooding. He added that organisers had erected enough tents to shield guests in case of rain.
Mawiya further urged hotels hosting visitors to maintain high standards of security, sanitation, and hospitality. He encouraged guests attending the ceremony to visit Uganda’s tourist attractions, including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Source of the Nile, Mabira Forest, and Kasubi Royal Tombs.
Museveni is expected to take the oath for another term following his victory in the recently concluded presidential election, although opposition groups and some critics continue to challenge the outcome.
