Names on police uniforms not enough
What you need to know:
- The government’s move to identify police officers is a step in the right direction, but it must be accompanied by sustained efforts to address the root causes of police misconduct and promote a culture of accountability and transparency within the security forces.
The Uganda Police Force yesterday announced that it started distributing new uniforms to their officers with each pair bearing a stitched surname, force number and rank of the personnel for proper identification and accountability during the General Election.
The initiative to affix names on police uniforms is a welcome move towards promoting accountability and transparency within the security forces following widespread condemnation of the Force over rights abuse.
This step acknowledges the need to check rights abuses and ensure that officers are held responsible for their actions. By wearing their names, officers can be easily identified, which may encourage them to adhere to professional standards and respect citizens' rights. However, while this move is a positive development, it is crucial to recognize that merely displaying names on uniforms may not be sufficient to address the complex issues surrounding police accountability.
Many of the officers even today have their names on their uniforms but still commit crimes. The first step that the Police need to do is de-link themselves from the politics of the day and serve what they are intended to do. That is to keep law and order and not to abuse rights such as freedom of assembly, freedom to protest peacefully, and others.
More comprehensive measures are needed to prevent abuses of power and ensure that officers are held accountable for their actions. These measures could include enhanced training programmes that focus on human rights, community policing, and de-escalation techniques.
We may also need to strengthen internal affairs units to investigate complaints against officers and implement robust disciplinary procedures for officers found guilty of misconduct. Additionally, increasing transparency and oversight through independent review boards or civilian-led monitoring bodies can help build trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Furthermore, community engagement and outreach programs can foster better relationships between police officers and the public, promoting mutual understanding and respect. Importantly, the effectiveness of this initiative will depend on the government's commitment to implementing a broader framework for police accountability.
It is also important to ensure that officers are not only identifiable but also protected and supported in their work. This includes providing them with the necessary resources, training, and support to perform their duties effectively and safely. Ultimately, the government's move to identify police officers is a step in the right direction, but it must be accompanied by sustained efforts to address the root causes of police misconduct and promote a culture of accountability and transparency within the security forces.
