The government’s establishment of a private security company has sparked backlash among Ugandans. The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), the commercial wing of the UPDF, recently entered the private security business with the creation of NEC Security Services Limited.
On Friday, a group of 98 private security personnel affiliated with NEC Security Services Limited completed their training at the Katuugo Training School in Nakasongola district.
According to Col Moses Mwesigwa, the head of NEC Security Services Limited, while the primary responsibility for maintaining security lies with agencies such as UPDF, Police, and Prisons, these private security guards serve to supplement their efforts by filling gaps and providing security services to private individuals and their properties for a fee.
However, this move has triggered concerns and dissatisfaction from various segments of the public. Some argue that the government is neglecting its duty to utilize the established security agencies—police and the military—to safeguard its citizens.
Melvin Nasasira voiced his discontent, stating, “It seems like a completely flawed plan for our army, whose role is to defend the country and its people, to suddenly shift gears and engage in business.”
Timothy Baguma expressed apprehension, suggesting, “I foresee a situation where certain elements within the security agencies may intentionally cause insecurity to create demand for their security services, driven by profit motives.”
Moses Amone made a comparison, saying, “I suppose they’ve taken a cue from Wagner Group and Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF).”
Ronny Paul Kaweesa offered a different perspective, commenting, “Considering that the army has historically functioned as a private agency, why should we question this now?”
Nyamogo Dickens expressed concern about the broader implications, stating, “This idea is not healthy for Uganda or the region. Such private security firms could recruit nationals and potentially be exploited to overthrow governments or incite unrest in the region.”
The government’s move into the private security sector has generated a significant public backlash, raising concerns about the allocation of resources, potential conflicts of interest, and the overall implications for national security and stability.