Parliament has rejected a request by the UPDF for Shs138 billion to facilitate its operations in monitoring the 2026 general elections.
According to parliament, election security falls under the mandate of the Uganda Police Force.
Parliament recommended that any funds meant for this activity should instead be reallocated to the police to strengthen its capacity.
During the parliamentary debate, UPDF representatives defended the request, stating that the funds were intended for operational activities and to ensure the security of Members of Parliament (MPs) during the election period.
However, some MPs rejected the request over fears that such a move would lead to the militarizing of elections
They emphasized that the military’s role would be limited to providing support and protection to legislators who might face security threats.
Parliament argued that the involvement of the army in monitoring elections could intimidate voters and undermine the democratic process.
Parliament noted that Uganda Police, which is constitutionally mandated to handle election security, should be adequately funded instead of bringing in the military.
