Retired Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Sam Omalla has died at Mulago Hospital after a prolonged battle with cancer.
His death was announced by Capt Mike Mukula, National Vice Chairman of the NRM Eastern region and Chairman of the Pan-African Movement.
Arrow Security Systems Ltd, where Omalla served as Director of Operations and Deputy CEO, confirmed the passing early Monday morning. “With deep sorrow, we announce the death of our Director of Operations and Deputy CEO, Sam Omalla (RIP),” the company said in a statement.
Omalla, a polarising figure in Uganda’s security landscape, rose to public prominence as the Kampala Metropolitan North Area Commander during the 2011 Walk-to-Work protests spearheaded by opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye.
His hardline tactics in quelling demonstrations drew both fierce criticism and strong praise, reflecting the divided opinions about his style of policing.
Throughout his career, Omalla was often at the centre of Uganda’s most tense political confrontations, facing off with opposition activists and navigating the difficult balance between maintaining public order and respecting civil liberties. His firm stance earned him both respect within security circles and sharp rebuke from rights advocates.
Despite the controversy that often surrounded his name, Omalla remained an emblematic figure of Uganda’s approach to public order policing during a turbulent political era. Funeral arrangements will be announced later.