Security chiefs in Uganda have warned members of the public not to hang around polling stations to cause violence after voting.

The country heads to the polls next week, following a campaign season that has been dominated by violence, loss of life, and arrests of the opposition and their supporters.

At a joint security briefing, Police Chief Martin Ochola warned that anyone who causes trouble at polling stations, "will regret why they were born".

The opposition have been calling on voters to stay and witness the vote-counting, amidst fears of rigging.

Mr Ochola added that the police have been attacking journalists on the campaign trail, to restrain them from going where there is danger.

"We are trying to protect your lives... we shall beat your for your own sake! We shall use reasonable force to ensure that you don't go where there is a risk," he told journalists, as shown in this video:

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A number of journalists covering the opposition have been injured, and even hospitalised, following attacks by the armed forces.

Earlier this week, the electoral commission announced that voters should not stay behind after casting their ballots.

They also said that cameras and mobile phones will not be allowed at polling stations.