Don’t Blame Me! Museveni Rejects Personal Blame Over Security Abuses, Says Rogue Officers Must Face Justice

President Yoweri Museveni has dismissed claims that he should be held responsible for alleged crimes committed by some members of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and other security agencies.Museveni said security forces are established to maintain peace and fight crime, but individual officers who abuse their authority must be held accountable for their own actions.

The President made the remarks while responding to allegations of torture, illegal detention and other abuses reportedly involving some security personnel, including cases involving opposition supporters.He insisted that he has never supported torture or unlawful actions against citizens, saying such acts go against the principles that guided Uganda’s liberation struggles.Museveni argued that security institutions are made up of individuals, and misconduct by some officers should not automatically be blamed on the entire force or the country’s leadership.

He said some elements within security agencies may have become corrupt or compromised, adding that those found guilty of wrongdoing should face the law regardless of their positions.The President also maintained that the majority of security personnel continue serving the country professionally and warned officers against shielding criminals or blocking information about misconduct.Museveni’s comments come amid continued accusations from opposition groups and human rights activists over alleged abuses by security agencies, with the President insisting that justice and accountability remain the proper response to any violations.