Uganda Police Urged: Speak First to Maintain Public Trust

Assistant Commissioner of Police and Uganda Police Force spokesperson, ACP Rusoke Kituuma, has strongly advised police officers in the Savannah Region to prioritize effective communication. During a capacity-building session for over 185 officers from Luweero, Nakaseke, and Nakasongola districts, Kituuma highlighted that communication is no longer just an administrative task but a crucial operational tool for modern policing.

The training session, held at Luweero Central Police Station, focused on enhancing internal communication within the force, improving media engagement, and fostering better relationships between police and the communities they serve.

ACP Kituuma underscored that every officer must be equipped to communicate effectively with colleagues, the media, and the public. He stated that this proactive approach is essential for building public trust, improving service delivery, and combating the spread of misinformation in the current social media-driven environment.

“When police fail to communicate, other people will fill the information gap with speculation and falsehoods. That affects the credibility of the institution. We must always ensure the public receives factual and timely information,” Kituuma warned. He stressed that silence from the police leaves room for the proliferation of rumors and inaccuracies, which can significantly damage the force’s reputation.

Furthermore, Kituuma called for stronger police-community partnerships, emphasizing that public cooperation is indispensable for effective crime prevention and investigation. The goal, he explained, is to build a robust bridge between the police and the public, encouraging citizens to feel comfortable reporting crime and sharing vital information to enhance local safety.

This initiative is part of the Uganda Police Force’s wider strategy to bolster communication across all levels and enhance public confidence through transparency, accountability, and efficient information dissemination in an era increasingly shaped by digital and social media.