In a highly contentious case, Lawrence Ampe, a prison warder at Ngora Prisons, is facing potential dismissal after allegedly posting videos on social media that criticize the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Uganda’s ruling political party. Ampe, who is believed to operate under the TikTok handle @COP Ampe, reportedly released several videos in which he voiced strong opinions against NRM leadership, accusing them of corruption and mismanagement. His actions have raised serious concerns within the Uganda Prisons Service about the conduct of uniformed personnel during politically sensitive periods.
The Allegations Against Lawrence Ampe
Ampe’s social media presence has become the focal point of this controversy. According to reports, the TikTok videos uploaded by Ampe included pointed critiques of senior NRM officials, with accusations of self-enrichment and poor governance. He also allegedly made disparaging remarks about his fellow officers, claiming they were too afraid to speak out against these injustices. In one video that garnered significant attention, Ampe is heard expressing that many security officers are aware of the country’s mismanagement but remain silent due to fear.
Ampe’s choice to use his social media platform to make political statements, including singing songs associated with a political party, led to the Uganda Prisons Service issuing a formal warning on October 7, 2025. The warning clearly advised officers against engaging in partisan activity, emphasizing the need for neutrality in their roles as security officers.
Despite this official warning, Ampe continued to express his political views online, resulting in an official summons by the Uganda Prisons disciplinary committee.
Possible Consequences
The Uganda Prisons spokesperson, Frank Baine, confirmed that Ampe is facing disciplinary action for violating the code of conduct. Baine noted that Ampe had been warned about his political posts but continued to act in defiance of the regulations. He confirmed that the disciplinary committee will now evaluate Ampe’s actions, and depending on their findings, dismissal could be one of the possible outcomes.
The Uganda Prisons Service is strict about political neutrality within its ranks, particularly during politically sensitive times. Commissioner General of Prisons, Dr. Johnson Byabashaija, had previously issued stern warnings regarding indiscipline, especially regarding political statements or partisan activity among uniformed personnel. The rules are clear: officers must refrain from campaigning for political candidates, making public political statements on social media, or engaging in unauthorized political activity.
Broader Implications for Security Forces in Uganda
Ampe’s case is part of a broader concern about partisan activity among Uganda’s security personnel. Recent investigations into other members of the security forces, such as SSP Annabella Nyiramahoro, further highlight the issue. Nyiramahoro was filmed publicly campaigning for a political candidate, raising alarms about the role of security officers in political campaigns and their potential bias.
Conclusion
Lawrence Ampe’s continued posting of politically charged content on social media, despite warnings, has put him in the crosshairs of Uganda’s disciplinary bodies. His actions highlight the fine line between personal expression and professional conduct, especially in a highly charged political environment. As the disciplinary process unfolds, Ampe’s case could serve as a significant test for the Uganda Prisons Service and security agencies nationwide in managing the balance between free expression and institutional integrity.
