LIRA CITY, Uganda – Police in the North Kyoga region have warned of a suspected illegal plan by supporters of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) to stage riots following the disqualification of party president Jimmy Michael Akena from the 2026 presidential race.
According to SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the North Kyoga Regional Police Public Relations Officer, intelligence gathered by security agencies indicates that a group of UPC supporters planned to begin demonstrations in Lira City on Monday, September 29, 2025, before extending to other districts in the region.
The planned protests are reportedly linked to the Electoral Commission’s decision to block Akena’s nomination due to internal party disputes. The gathering point for the protest was identified as the home of Akena, located in the Senior Quarters of Lira City.
“As police and other security organs, we have not received any formal notification to the office of the Inspector General of Police regarding this gathering. Nor have we received any form of approval. This makes the planned activity not only illegal but a threat to public order,” SP Okema said.
He further emphasized that the North Kyoga region remains peaceful and that security forces are prepared to respond to any attempts to disrupt the stability of the area.
“We appeal to all law-abiding citizens to respect the rule of law and to report any suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station. Anyone found inciting violence or mobilizing illegal assemblies will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” he added.
Police have since issued alerts to all territorial commanders across the region, urging heightened vigilance and swift response to any unrest.
This development follows a press conference held by the UPC leadership on Sunday, where they expressed dissatisfaction with the Electoral Commission’s decision to block the nomination of Jimmy Akena and Adim Enap, citing unresolved internal party issues.
Meanwhile, the public is awaiting a crucial court ruling expected on 1st October 2025, which will determine whether Jimmy Michael Akena will be allowed to contest in the upcoming presidential election.
