NAKASERO KAMPALA: February 24, 2026– The newly-appointed Commander of the Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP), Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Ezekiel Ebapu Emitu, has today officially assumed the office.
The handover ceremony took place today at the Central Police Station (CPS) Kampala, where ACP Emitu received the instruments of power from the outgoing Commander, CP Richard Ecega.
The ceremony was presided over by the Director of Operations, AIGP Frank Mwesigwa, who highlighted the unique pressures of policing the capital. He described Kampala as one of the most “sensitive and demanding” environments in Uganda, noting that the role requires a delicate balance of resilience and sound judgment.
The Inspector General of Police, Abbas Byakagaba, named ACP Emitu as new commander on February 17, 2026 at the height of both isolated and organised crimes, which left residents worried about their safety. Attacks have occurred in homes, public spaces, and along major highways. Recent high-profile incidents include the murder of Pamela Ruth Tumwebaze, the Uganda Christian Unity Director of Student Affairs, who was killed inside her bedroom.
AIGP Mwesigwa extended his gratitude to the outgoing CP Ecega, praising his professionalism and dedicated service.
”Command is not merely a change of office, but a transition of responsibility, authority, and accountability,” Mwesigwa remarked, urging the outgoing commander to carry his wealth of experience into his next assignment.
As ACP Emitu steps into the role, the police leadership has set a clear agenda for his tenure. To maintain stability in the metropolitan area, the new Commander has been tasked with five strategic priorities:
Crime Prevention: Strengthening collaboration with other security agencies.
Operational Excellence: Maintaining firmness and restraint during police operations.
Accountability: Enhancing internal discipline and supervision of officers.
Community Policing: Building public trust, which Mwesigwa labeled a “strategic asset.”
Professionalism: Ensuring all duties are guided by an unwavering commitment to public service.
The shift in leadership comes at a time when the Uganda Police Force is focusing heavily on community-led security and inter-agency synergy. ACP Emitu’s leadership will be closely watched as he navigates the complex security dynamics of Kampala’s bustling streets and diverse neighborhoods.
