Dozens of young Ugandans were detained by security forces on Tuesday as they attempted to hold a banned protest against government corruption and alleged human rights abuses in the heart of the capital, Kampala.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing the arrests firsthand, while footage shared on social media platforms showed protesters being apprehended by police. The demonstrators carried signs condemning corruption and chanted slogans, with some even calling for the resignation of the country’s speaker.
Human rights group Chapter Four confirmed that at least 45 individuals were taken into custody during the crackdown and are providing legal assistance to those affected. While the exact number of detainees remains unconfirmed by police, five individuals have already been charged and remanded in custody until July 30. They face accusations of being a “common nuisance” and “idle and disorderly.”
Anticipating the protest, Ugandan authorities had imposed a ban, citing intelligence suggesting potential violence and vandalism. In response, a heavy security presence was deployed around the parliament building and throughout the city center. Roads leading to the parliament were blocked off, and military armored personnel carriers were observed patrolling the area.
The heightened security measures have disrupted daily life for residents and businesses near the parliament. “It’s like a war zone,” described one Kampala resident, Edwin Mugisha.
Adding to the tensions, police raided the offices of Uganda’s largest opposition party on Monday, accusing the party of organizing the protest and detaining several officials, including lawmakers. The party has denied these allegations but expressed support for the demonstrators.
Opposition leaders and activists have long accused the Ugandan government of widespread corruption and misuse of public funds. President Yoweri Museveni has consistently denied these claims, asserting that his administration prosecutes corrupt officials regardless of their political affiliation.
The confrontation between protesters and security forces highlights the growing discontent among Ugandans over issues of corruption and governance.
