By Jumah Kakomo
The Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC) is urging both local communities and the police to work together in a collective effort to reduce crime rates as the festive season approaches. Speaking at the party headquarters in Kampala on Wednesday, Faizo Muzeyi, the party’s Head of Media, emphasized the need for increased vigilance during the upcoming Christmas and New Year holidays, a period often marked by a surge in criminal activity.
Muzeyi called for heightened police presence in communities and greater collaboration between law enforcement and local leaders to address security concerns. “We urge the police to increase their presence in communities and to work closely with local leaders and residents to identify and address potential security threats,” Muzeyi said, highlighting the importance of proactive engagement to ensure public safety.
The UPC leader also called on communities to take an active role in crime prevention, stressing that residents should report any suspicious activities to the authorities. “We must all take responsibility for the safety of our communities by staying alert and looking out for one another,” Faizo Muzeyi added.
In addition to public security concerns, Muzeyi appealed to parents to keep their children engaged in positive and productive activities during the holiday season. “The holiday period can often leave children idle, and this can lead to negative behaviors such as substance abuse, promiscuity, and involvement in criminal activities,” he noted.
Muzeyi urged parents to involve their children in meaningful work, such as household chores, learning new skills, or participating in community service projects. “By involving our children in productive activities, we can not only keep them busy but also help instill values like discipline, responsibility, and a strong work ethic,” he said.
The UPC emphasized that these initiatives would not only reduce crime but also help in the overall development of the children, preparing them for a brighter future while contributing positively to society.
“As a community, we can work together to ensure that the festive season is one of joy and safety for all. Let us not leave our children idle, but instead, give them opportunities to grow and develop into responsible citizens,” Muzeyi concluded.