MPs call for stronger action on insecurity

What the report says

Ugandan lawmakers have pressed government to take stronger action on insecurity in different parts of the country, saying the problem is hurting livelihoods and undermining public confidence. The debate took place in Parliament on Tuesday, 11 August 2026, during consideration of a motion to commend President Yoweri Museveni for his State of the Nation Address delivered on 4 June 2026, according to Watchdog Uganda.

MPs raised several concerns during the discussion. David Okwere, the Bukedea County representative, said land grabbing has become a major source of insecurity in his area and warned that residents are increasingly worried about unauthorized land surveillance and surveying. Stella Atyang, the Moroto District Woman Representative, praised the disarmament effort in Karamoja but urged government to put in place measures that would preserve peace and respond faster to petty crime. Eddie Kwizera, the Bukimbiri County MP, also commended the Uganda People’s Defence Forces for helping maintain stability and called for tighter screening of people entering the country.

From the security side, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces and UPDF representative in Parliament, urged Ugandans to protect the country’s peace gains and described national security as a shared responsibility. Museveni, as quoted in the address referenced by the MPs, linked peace and law and order to wealth creation and credited the UPDF, police and judiciary with maintaining stability. The discussion reflects how security remains tied to economic activity, land disputes and regional stability in Uganda.