Kampala, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | The Uganda Police Force have cautioned that the scheduled march to Parliament organized by anti-corruption activists is deemed illegal as it has not received clearance.
“We are informed of an ongoing mobilization calling for people to march to Parliament but we want to warn organisers that given the lack of transparency and a potential of disorder, we are against this march,” police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kituuma Rusoke said on Monday 15, July 2024.
There is increasing momentum surrounding discussions of an anti-corruption march to Parliament scheduled for July 23, aimed at expressing discontent with alleged misconduct by government officials. This movement has been particularly active on social media platforms.
Organizers have articulated their intention to highlight dissatisfaction with Parliament’s handling of public funds. However, police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kituuma Rusoke speaking on Monday, indicated that law enforcement has not been officially notified about the planned protest.
Rusoke cautioned that such an event could potentially lead to disturbances on Kampala’s streets.
Rusoke, the spokesperson, expressed concerns that clandestine mobilization efforts for the protest might lead to significant disruptions. He emphasized that security measures would be implemented to prevent any disorder from occurring.
“We have seen organizers using social media to mobilise people to parliament. We respect the constitutional right to carry out a peaceful demonstration and right to assembly but we know some people with ulterior motives might want to hijack these activities,” Rusoke said.
According to intelligence reports cited by the police spokesperson, indications suggest that the planned protest could result in serious consequences. He stressed the importance for organizers to engage with the police to receive guidance on how to peacefully express their discontent.
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“We are ready and open to guide people in exercise of their rights but without any jeopardizing public safety.”
Recently, there has been a development following deadly protests in Kenya a few weeks ago sparked by the controversial Finance Bill, 2024. This bill had proposed significant tax and administrative changes affecting various aspects of tax laws.
The protests in Kenya resulted in the deaths of several individuals, prompting the government to eventually withdraw the contentious legislation.
In light of these events, the Ugandan government has issued a warning to its citizens against emulating the protests seen in Kenya.
