The Deputy Inspector General of Government (DIGG), Anne Muhairwe, has called on the Uganda Police Force to uphold humane law enforcement and strengthen collaboration with the Inspectorate of Government (IG) to improve accountability and public trust.

Muhairwe made the call during a boardroom engagement between the Inspectorate of Government and the leadership of the Uganda Police Force at Police Headquarters in Naguru, as part of activities to commemorate International Ombuds Day 2026.

During the meeting, Muhairwe commended the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abas Byakagaba, for his leadership, responsiveness and reforms within the Force, particularly improvements in staff welfare that she said were already producing positive results.

She urged police officers to enforce the law with fairness and respect for human rights, noting that the police are often the most frequent point of contact between citizens and government.

“Justice should be felt, not feared,” Muhairwe said, emphasising the importance of ensuring that law enforcement practices promote public confidence rather than fear.

The Deputy IGG also explained the distinction between the Inspectorate of Government’s ombudsman function and its anti-corruption mandate. She described the ombudsman role as one that helps resolve disputes between citizens and government institutions, as well as disagreements involving public officers.

She highlighted complaints received by the Inspectorate of Government involving police officers, including allegations of unlawful arrests and administrative grievances such as delayed salaries and pensions.

To address these concerns more efficiently, Muhairwe proposed the establishment of a Police Ombudsman to handle administrative injustice and maladministration within the Uganda Police Force. The proposed office would provide a mechanism for addressing administrative complaints and improving the timely resolution of grievances.

The Inspector General of Police welcomed the proposal, saying it would be discussed further internally. He also reaffirmed the Uganda Police Force’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the Inspectorate of Government.

Byakagaba proposed designating a focal person to coordinate communication between the two institutions, particularly on investigations and anti-corruption matters. He further assured the Deputy IGG that complaints involving police officers would be reviewed and appropriately addressed.

The IGP also welcomed improvements in police performance highlighted in the Inspectorate of Government’s latest report to Parliament, expressing hope that the progress would be reflected in the forthcoming National Integrity Survey.

During the engagement, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Christopher Damulira called for greater involvement of the Uganda Police Force in the upcoming National Integrity Survey.

Another Assistant Inspector General of Police, Tom Magambo, urged the Inspectorate of Government to support efforts to showcase successful joint anti-corruption initiatives and address negative public perceptions of the police.

Muhairwe was accompanied by Savio Kakooza, Director of Ombudsman Affairs; Hilda Talibba, Director of Legal Affairs; Hajjat Ali Munira, Assistant Director of Public Relations; and other officials from the Inspectorate of Government.

The engagement highlighted the importance of cooperation between the Inspectorate of Government and the Uganda Police Force in addressing complaints, strengthening anti-corruption efforts and promoting accountable public service delivery.