BY: CHIOMA MADONNA NDUKWU
Security forces in Uganda sealed off the National Unity Platform (NUP) headquarters on Monday, ahead of anti-government protests planned for Tuesday.
The move, described by police as precautionary, comes amid rising tensions over allegations of widespread corruption and human rights abuses under President Yoweri Museveni’s long rule. NUP leader Bobi Wine reported violent arrests of party members and a heavy military presence, including parked army trucks, surrounding the office. Wine accused the government of fearing the people’s response and trying to stifle dissent.
Authorities justified their actions by citing concerns over potential unrest and the need to prevent unauthorized protests. Despite the ban, protests are set to proceed, with demonstrators planning to march to parliament. Wine’s party is not officially organizing the protest but supports it, highlighting the growing frustration among Ugandans. The heavy-handed approach by security forces has drawn criticism from human rights advocates, who argue it stifles democratic expression. Meanwhile, President Museveni has defended his administration’s record, pledging to crack down on corruption while accusing opposition elements of inciting unrest with foreign support.
