The Uganda Police Force has issued a warning to citizens regarding the unauthorized use of the national flag, stating that misuse of the country’s symbol could lead to legal action under the National Flag and Armorial Ensigns Act. The announcement comes during the ongoing political campaigns leading up to the 2026 general elections.

According to Uganda Police Spokesperson, ACP Kituuma Rusoke, many Ugandans are unaware of the legal restrictions surrounding the national flag. “The national flag is being abused in the ongoing political campaigns,” Rusoke said, echoing earlier remarks by Hellen Seku, Uganda’s national patriotism coordinator.

The national flag has become a prominent feature at rallies organized by the National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate, Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine. Supporters attending these rallies often wave the national flag, and the candidate’s entourage has been seen displaying it on vehicles and at campaign venues.

ACP Rusoke clarified that the police are currently not arresting citizens for using the flag, but they are reminding the public about the law. “Police hasn’t opted to arrest and prosecute people abusing the national flag but have come out to remind them that the law exists and they can be charged for abusing the national symbol,” he said. The police noted that mounting the flag on utility poles or failing to remove it during adverse weather could be considered disrespectful under the law.

The National Flag and Armorial Ensigns Act states that any person who does any act or utters any words or publishes any writing with intent to bring into contempt or ridicule the national flag or armorial ensigns or any representation thereof commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a period not exceeding two years.

The law also prohibits unauthorized use of the national flag in connection with business, trade, or political campaigns without explicit permission from the Minister. Offenders may face fines not exceeding twelve currency points or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both.

While the warnings aim to protect national symbols, human rights lawyers have criticized the police’s statements. Dr. Livingstone Sewanyana, executive director of the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI), said that all those speaking against use of the flag are diversionary because the national flag is a sign for freedom of expression and police condemnation is one of the ongoing sentiments law enforcement agencies are using to seek sympathy where there is none.

The Act also empowers the Minister to regulate the use of the national flag, including prescribing the occasions, the people authorized, and the manner in which it may be displayed. Regulations may also restrict or control the flag’s use in various settings.

As the 2026 election campaigns continue, the Uganda Police’s warning serves as a reminder for all citizens to respect the national symbols while exercising their rights to political expression.