KAMPALA
A heated exchange has erupted between Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) President, Hon. Jimmy Akena, and CDF Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba over the role of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JATT) and the use of balaclavas by elite security forces.
Hon. Akena, in a strong-worded X post (formerly Twitter), questioned the actions of elite forces, particularly JATT, in Uganda’s political landscape. He expressed concern over reports of security operatives allegedly targeting unarmed political actors and journalists, reflecting on the events of the Kawempe North by-election.
“True, but I’m yet to see any of these elite forces clobbering unarmed political actors involved in a political process & also turn their training unto the member of the Press. JATT’s roles do not include terrorizing the public; doing so deserves to hide behind a mask of shame,” Akena stated.
His remarks appeared to challenge the conduct of some security personnel accused of suppressing political dissent and curbing press freedom.
Akena was responding to Gen. Muhoozi’s X post in which he defended the practice of JATT operatives wearing balaclavas in the Kawempe North by-election, emphasizing that it is a global standard for special forces.
“Wearing a balaclava is standard procedure amongst all Special Forces in the world. Here is a sample from the British, French, and Russian Special Forces. All our Special Forces including JATT will continue wearing balaclavas!” he stated.
The Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, Gen. Muhoozi’s comments suggest that the use of balaclavas is not meant to instill fear but rather to maintain operational security and protect the identities of special forces personnel.
However, Akena criticizes the conduct of security officers, particularly allegations of human rights violations. His statement adds to growing criticism from opposition figures and human rights activists who have accused security agencies of using excessive force to suppress political opposition.
The exchange highlights ongoing concerns over the role of Uganda’s elite forces in civil and political affairs, as well as the broader debate on security sector accountability in the country ahead of the 2026 general elections.
