The inspector general of police (IGP), Abas Byakagaba, has suspended private firearm licensing in Uganda, a move reportedly aimed at tightening oversight and preventing firearms from falling into the wrong hands.
Sources indicate the decision comes amidst growing concerns about misuse under previous administrations.
"When the IGP assumed office, he suspended private gun licensing, citing concerns that many firearms were being used to commit atrocities," said a source familiar with the matter.
The review process will examine licensing guidelines and procedures to enhance accountability and security.
STRICTER MEASURES AND WITHDRAWALS
The suspension has already led to the withdrawal of firearms from several individuals, including three legislators accused of inappropriate conduct.
"Police aim to reduce the number of firearms in civilian hands," the source noted.
Starting December 1, 2024, firearm license renewals will resume, but many applications are expected to be denied as part of the broader effort to curtail firearm circulation among civilians.
The Uganda Police Force (UPF) faces financial challenges stemming from this policy. The ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) had projected Shs 30 billion in non-tax revenue for the UPF in the last financial year. This target included income from gun licensing, firearm certificate renewals, and other police services.
With over 1,000 pending firearm license applications now stalled, the suspension has significantly reduced this revenue stream.
A HISTORY OF EVOLVING GUN POLICIES
This is not the first time private gun licensing has been suspended in Uganda. Following General Kale Kayihura's tenure as IGP, his successor, Martins Okoth Ochola, temporarily banned civilian firearm licenses in 2018, seizing illegal firearms nationwide. However, Ochola lifted the ban within a year, allowing individuals to acquire firearms under strict criteria.
As of September 2022, the number of civilian-owned firearms in Uganda had risen from approximately 3,000 in 2016 to over 5,000. Byakagaba's recent suspension could signal a return to stricter policies aimed at reversing this trend.
REQUIREMENTS FOR ACQUIRING A FIREARM
Under Uganda's Firearms Act of 1970, individuals can obtain a firearm certificate to purchase, possess and use firearms, provided they meet specific conditions. Applicants must be at least 25 years old, have a sound mind and demonstrate temperate habits.
Additionally, they must justify a legitimate need to own a firearm, prove competence in handling the weapon, and ensure safe custody with adequate security measures approved by the local police.
The application process begins with purchasing Police Form 98 for Shs 50,000, available at the revenue police office. After completing the form, applicants submit it to the inspector general of police through the commissioner of police in charge of private security and firearms. Licenses must be periodically renewed, with renewal applications costing Shs 100,000.
GUN VIOLENCE
Despite regulatory frameworks, illegal firearms possession and gun violence remain significant concerns in Uganda. Recent high-profile cases of the latter illustrate the challenges.
In November 2023, Molly Katanga was charged with the murder of her husband, Henry Katanga, who was shot in their Mbuya home. She faces charges alongside her two daughters and others involved in the incident.
Another alarming case involved Ambassador Dickson Ogwang Okul, a foreign service officer, who reportedly drew a pistol during a leadership dispute in Lira earlier this month. The act provoked outrage among local clan leaders.
Illegal firearms trafficking has also been highlighted. In September 2023, Rasul Akasa, known as Ndale, was sentenced to nine years and eight months by the Fourth Infantry Division Court Martial for illegal possession of a sub-machine gun (SMG) and an AK-47 rifle. Akasa had acquired the firearms through dubious deals linked to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Similarly, Kisoro Grade One Magistrate Bob Simplex Asiimwe sentenced Sadiki Gashendure and Silvani Uwirangiye to six years in prison for illegally possessing a firearm after crossing into Uganda from the DRC.
POLICE EFFORTS TO CURB ILLEGAL FIREARMS
The Uganda Police Force has intensified efforts to combat illegal firearm possession. In 2022, 378 illicit firearms were destroyed, recovered from regions such as Karamoja, Northern Uganda, and Kampala Metropolitan. These weapons, often tied to violent crimes such as murder and robbery, underscore the persistent challenge of ensuring public safety.
Uganda's firearm regulatory system aims to balance responsible ownership with stringent measures to deter misuse. However, the prevalence of illegal arms and gun-related violence remains a pressing issue, requiring sustained efforts in enforcement and public education to foster peace and security.
POLICE CLARIFIES FIREARM LICENSING SUSPENSION
The suspension of private firearm licensing in Uganda is not an outright halt but a move to introduce stricter measures to ensure responsible gun ownership, according to police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke. Speaking in an interview, Rusoke emphasized that the adjustments aim to enhance the integrity of the licensing process.
"The process has not been stopped; we are implementing stricter measures to ensure that only eligible individuals are granted licenses," Rusoke said.
He highlighted that firearm holders are bound by a specific disciplinary framework.
"Licenses can be withdrawn if individuals fail to meet the necessary disciplinary requirements. This is to ensure the safety and security of the public," he added.
OVERHAUL OF LICENSING PROCEDURES
Rusoke noted that Uganda's firearm licensing procedures have evolved. "Initially, obtaining a license required minimal scrutiny. However, we have realized the need for a more thorough evaluation process. The public must understand that firearm acquisition and licensing are governed by a robust regulatory framework," he explained.
The licensing process now involves multiple layers of scrutiny to prevent misuse.
"Applicants must complete Form 98, which is then reviewed by various security entities, including the district security committee, the Internal Security Organization, and the Private Security Firearms Unit. The final approvals come from the inspector general of police and the Minister of Internal Affairs," Rusoke outlined.
CONTINUOUS ADAPTATION TO CURRENT NEEDS
Rusoke further stated that Uganda's firearm policies are continuously updated to address emerging security challenges.
"There are ongoing efforts to amend laws and policies to align with current trends and societal needs. This ensures that the licensing process remains relevant and effective," he said.
Additionally, firearm applicants must undergo rigorous training facilitated by the directorate of Human Resource Development before receiving their licenses.
"The training ensures that individuals are well-prepared and aware of their responsibilities as firearm holders," Rusoke noted.
The police's stance underscores a commitment to tightening oversight of firearm ownership in Uganda, reflecting broader efforts to enhance public safety amid growing concerns over gun-related incidents.
BALANCING SECURITY AND CIVIL RIGHTS
The suspension highlights the challenges of balancing national security with civilian rights to firearm ownership. While the initiative seeks to curb the misuse of firearms, critics may question its impact on law-abiding citizens and the revenue shortfall for the Uganda Police Force.
As the review process unfolds, the outcomes will likely shape the future of firearm ownership in Uganda, setting a precedent for tighter regulation in the region.
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