On 8 January 2021, the U.S. Embassy in Kampala issued a Security Alert regarding the upcoming election scheduled for 14 January, which reads in part as follows:
“U.S. citizens in Uganda should heighten awareness and caution during the election season. Ugandan presidential campaigning and election activity continue to bring large gatherings. These types of gatherings may increase the risk of violence, civil crime, significant traffic disruptions and COVID-19 transmission. Clashes at these gatherings and outbreaks of violence have occurred before, during, and after past general elections in Uganda. Police routinely use force, including tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition, to disperse protests. Demonstrations throughout Uganda are likely to remain common and may escalate to violence. U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations and crowds and take proper precautions against the spread of COVID-19.”
The full text of the alert is available here.
