Tightened Security at NUP Headquarters Amid Election Season: Allegations of Detentions Surface

As Uganda heads into another heated election season, heightened security measures have reportedly been implemented at the National Unity Platform (NUP) headquarters in Kavule, Makerere. According to reliable sources, party leadership has instructed internal security operatives—commonly referred to as “foot soldiers”—to intensify surveillance and control access during party events and meetings.

One of the more controversial developments is the reported establishment of a temporary holding cell on the premises. This cell, according to insiders, is allegedly being used to detain individuals suspected of violating internal protocols, particularly unauthorized photography or videography during press briefings, meetings, or other party functions. The purpose, sources claim, is to interrogate and identify individuals suspected of leaking sensitive information or working as infiltrators from rival political entities or security agencies.

It is alleged that individuals caught recording without clearance from the party’s security team are questioned and, in some cases, temporarily held to determine their intent and affiliations. The move, though unconfirmed officially, is said to stem from increasing concerns about espionage.

Party spokesperson Waiswa Mufumbiro, when contacted for comment, denied claims about the existence of a detention cell. However, he confirmed that strict rules are in place regarding photography and videography at the party’s offices. “No one is allowed to take videos or photos without clearance from our security team. This is to ensure the safety of our members and operations,” he explained.

According to sources within the party, NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, recently received intelligence indicating that spies linked to rival political factions, including the Democratic Front associated with Mathias Mpuuga, as well as the ruling NRM and certain security agencies, were being sent to infiltrate the party. These individuals allegedly collect visual and audio information that could compromise the safety of NUP officials and supporters, potentially leading to incidents of abduction and harassment.

This level of caution is not unprecedented. Similar restrictions have long been enforced near sensitive state locations such as Nakasero, Entebbe State House, and Rwakitura, where elite SFC commandos are authorized to detain individuals caught filming or photographing the president’s residences.