A Ugandan prison officer has been dismissed from service after posting political content on TikTok that criticised the government and senior officials, a move authorities said amounted to gross indiscipline.
Lawrence Ampe had been under investigation over a series of social media videos in which he accused senior figures of corruption, human rights abuses, and mistreatment of lower-ranking prison staff. Prison authorities said public officers are prohibited from engaging in political activity under standing regulations.
Officials said Ampe was dismissed for participating in politics through an inappropriate platform and for continuing to post political content despite earlier warnings. A disciplinary council reportedly ordered him to return all state property following the decision.
Ampe shared his dismissal letter on TikTok, telling followers he was now free to speak openly and urging Ugandans not to worry about his personal situation, saying his actions were about liberating the nation rather than money.
The officer, who has more than 100,000 followers on the platform, had also posted videos supporting opposition leader Bobi Wine, who is challenging President Yoweri Museveni in upcoming elections as the long-serving leader seeks to extend his decades-long rule.
Opposition figures condemned the dismissal, describing it as evidence of systemic oppression and double standards within the security sector. They argued that while some officials are punished for political expression, others within state institutions openly support the president without facing consequences.
Authorities previously warned prison officers against using social media to comment on political or work-related matters without authorisation. Despite this, Ampe reportedly continued uploading political videos, leading to further disciplinary action.
Ugandan authorities have frequently faced criticism from rights groups and international observers over restrictions on freedom of expression and the use of legal measures to curb online dissent, including prosecutions linked to social media posts.