Mubende: Security Bans Irregular Use of National Flag by NUP Supporters

Bobi Wine holding the national flag during a campaign trail in Eastern Uganda.

Security authorities in Mubende Municipality have launched a joint operation to remove irregularly raised national flags, warning against the misuse of Uganda’s national symbols, particularly by supporters of political parties, including the National Unity Platform (NUP).

According to a statement issued by the Wamala Regional Police Spokesperson, SSP Lameck Kigozi, the operation was aimed at restoring the dignity and respect of the national colours after it was observed that several individuals had hoisted the national flag in violation of established legal and standard procedures.

“It was observed that some people had raised the national flag in places that demean its dignity and national value,” SSP Kigozi said.

Among the locations cited were pork joints, bars, toilets, brothels, and on electric and telephone poles, all of which authorities say are inappropriate for displaying the national flag.

Security officials emphasized that the national flag and other state symbols are protected under the law and should only be displayed with proper authorization and in accordance with prescribed guidelines.

“The public is cautioned against abusing state symbols. The national flag is protected by law, and police will not hesitate to prosecute individuals who continue to use gazetted state symbols without clearance from the relevant authorities,” the statement read.

Residents across the wider Wamala Region have been advised to lower any national flags that have been irregularly raised.

Authorities say the move is part of efforts to safeguard the integrity of national symbols and ensure they are treated with the respect they deserve.