Ugandan Security Forces Crack Down on Opposition Ahead of Anti-Corruption Protests

In Summary

• Ugandan security forces sealed off the headquarters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) ahead of planned anti-corruption protests, arresting several opposition leaders.
• NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, condemned the government's actions, while President Museveni warned against protests, alleging foreign sponsorship.
• Protesters intend to march to parliament to denounce corruption and human rights abuses, despite a ban on the demonstration.

Kampala, Uganda- On Monday, Ugandan security forces cordoned off the headquarters of the country's main opposition party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), in anticipation of banned anti-government protests planned for Tuesday. The move, described as precautionary by a police spokesperson, led to the arrest of several opposition leaders.

Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, NUP's chief, shared on social media that security personnel surrounded the NUP headquarters in Kampala, preventing entry and exit. He reported the "violent arrests" of NUP leaders and posted images of military personnel and army trucks at the scene, accusing the regime of fear and wrongdoing.

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke did not comment on the arrests but stated that security forces acted in response to NUP's "mobilization for the protest," emphasizing the precautionary nature of their measures.

Wine, a pop star turned politician, has become the primary challenger to President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986. Despite the NUP not organizing the protest, it supports the demonstration, which aims to march to parliament against alleged corruption and human rights abuses under Museveni's rule.

Protests in Uganda are legally permitted but require advance police approval, which is seldom granted. Opposition leaders and activists claim widespread embezzlement and misuse of funds, accusing Museveni of protecting corrupt officials loyal to him. Museveni denies these claims, asserting that culprits are prosecuted when evidence is available.

In a recent directive, Museveni ordered the arrest and prosecution of officials linked to fraudulent civil servants on the payroll. He warned the youth against the planned protests, alleging foreign involvement and threatening action against those inciting chaos.