KAMPALA, Uganda — In a move that has sparked a national debate over freedom of expression within the security forces, the Uganda Prisons Service has dismissed a ranking officer, Lawrence Ampe, citing “gross indiscipline” and unauthorized political engagement on social media.
The dismissal follows a high-profile investigation into Ampe’s TikTok activity, where he amassed over 100,000 followers by broadcasting critiques of high-ranking government officials.
His videos frequently highlighted allegations of systemic corruption, human rights violations, and the poor treatment of junior prison staff.
The case for dismissal: “Politicking in the wrong forum”
Prisons spokesman Frank Baine confirmed the Prisons Council’s decision to terminate Ampe’s service last Tuesday. Speaking to Vivid Voice News, Baine emphasized that the officer had violated fundamental standing orders that govern the conduct of public servants.
“The standing orders don’t allow a public officer to participate in politics, which he is doing even now,” Baine stated. He further noted that Ampe was sacked for “politicking in the wrong forum,” adding that the officer showed no remorse during his disciplinary hearing.
Authorities maintain that Ampe ignored a November 2025 warning regarding his self-produced content. The prison service cited regulations that strictly prohibit public officers from communicating with the media on official policy or work-related matters without prior authorization.
“Liberating our Nation”: Ampe’s social media defiance
Far from being silenced by the dismissal, Ampe shared his termination letter directly with his TikTok followers. His reaction signaled a transition from a civil servant to a full-time activist.
- On the dismissal: He captioned his letter with the words: “I’m finally out free to support truth.”
- On financial survival: In a subsequent video addressing his supporters’ concerns, he remarked: “What we are doing is not all about money but about liberating our nation.”
Ampe’s platform has increasingly become a hub for opposition messaging. He has used his influence to promote campaign videos for Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, who is currently challenging President Yoweri Museveni ahead of the January 15, 2026, general elections.
Double standards and political friction
Opposition leader Bobi Wine has come to the officer’s defense, characterizing the dismissal as a symptom of a broader crackdown on dissent.
He argued that the government exhibits a “double standard” by punishing Ampe while allowing pro-government military figures to express partisan support without consequence.
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According to the opposition, Ampe’s only “crime” was using his platform to “expose corruption, abuse of power, oppression of lower ranking officers and other evils within the Uganda Prisons Service.”
| Party / Agency | Stance on Ampe Case |
| Uganda Prisons Service | Sacked for violating standing orders and gross indiscipline. |
| National Unity Platform (NUP) | Dismissal is evidence of systemic oppression and double standards. |
| US Government (2023 Report) | Notes a history of restricted internet freedom and criminal punishments for dissent. |
The broader context
This incident occurs as Uganda enters a high-stakes election cycle, with President Museveni seeking to extend his 40-year tenure.
Rights organizations and international bodies continue to monitor the country’s landscape, often citing violations regarding the freedom of expression and the use of the legal system to curb criticism of the state.
Ampe has been ordered to surrender all state property in his possession immediately, though his digital presence suggests his influence may only grow as the 2026 polls approach.
