The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Uganda police were heavily present in Kampala on Tuesday in anticipation of an upcoming anti-corruption rally, despite the authorities having banned the event.
President Yoweri Museveni, known for his long-standing authoritarian rule, had cautioned protesters against proceeding, warning them of severe consequences.
Ahead of the planned demonstration, three opposition lawmakers were detained late Monday, following reports from opposition leader Bobi Wine that his party headquarters were surrounded by police and military personnel.
The rally, mobilized through online platforms and inspired by youth-led protests in neighboring Kenya, aims to address widespread corruption in Uganda. Protest leaders emphasized their commitment to the country’s future and called for action against graft, advocating for a march towards parliament.
However, authorities remained firm in their stance against the demonstration, citing concerns about potential disruptions to national peace and security.
Streets in central Kampala were notably quiet but heavily patrolled by police in riot gear, including some in camouflage uniforms. Security measures were also evident around the NUP headquarters.
The crackdown intensified with the arrest of opposition legislators, including Francis Zaake, Charles Tebandeke, and Hassan Kirumira, along with other party affiliates. Bobi Wine reiterated his call for support for the rallies, expressing a desire for a more inclusive and just society in Uganda.
The planned march on Tuesday, promoted under the hashtag #StopCorruption on social media, underscores the deep-rooted issue of graft in Uganda, contributing to its poor ranking on Transparency International’s corruption index.
