Ugandan police have declared their intention to block opposition-led demonstrations scheduled for Thursday in a preemptive move, accusing dissident figures of orchestrating protests that “have never been peaceful.” Authorities assert that the opposition’s aim is to tarnish Uganda’s image during the ongoing Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit, hosting hundreds of international delegates.
The joint opposition forces, led by Robert Kyagulanyi and Dr. Kizza Besigye, had called for peaceful protests on Tuesday to express discontent over the state of the capital’s roads. However, on Wednesday, Police Spokesperson Fred Enanga criticized the opposition leaders, claiming they have consistently failed to coordinate with law enforcement for the smooth conduct of public meetings and processions.
Enanga emphasized that past demonstrations led by opposition figures have been marred by violence, looting, vandalism, and assaults on law enforcement, accusing them of hijacking the constitutional right to assemble for criminal activities. He issued a stern warning, stating, “Any violent acts committed in any part of the country, under the guise of peaceful protests, shall be swiftly disrupted, investigated, perpetrators arrested and charged to court.”
Calling upon the public for assistance, Enanga urged citizens to identify individuals actively mobilizing and instigating violence within their communities. The police’s firm stance on maintaining law and order comes amidst concerns about potential clashes during the visit of heads of state on Thursday.
Anderson Burora, the Rubaga Division deputy Resident District Commissioner, cautioned opposition elements against proceeding with the demonstrations. He emphasized the deployment of additional security personnel across the city to ensure safety, especially in light of the visiting heads of state. Burora urged opposition leaders to reconsider their plans to avoid confrontations with law enforcement.
