Ugandan security forces seal off opposition party headquarters ahead of anti-corruption protest

By Hamza Kyeyune

KAMPALA, Uganda (AA) – A day before an anti-corruption rally against the Ugandan government, security forces sealed off the headquarters of a major opposition party in Kampala and arrested its leaders in what the police described as a "preventive arrest."

National Unity Platform (NUP) chief Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, said on X that security personnel have surrounded party headquarters in Kampala, preventing anyone from entering or exiting.

He said several NUP leaders have been "violently arrested" and displayed photos of military personnel on the premises alongside parked army trucks.

Kampala Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke confirmed by saying it was a preventive arrest.

In recent years, the 42-year-old pop star turned politician has emerged as the most serious challenger to veteran President Yoweri Museveni, 79, who has led East Africa since 1986.

The Kampala Police have issued a statement warning a planned anti-corruption march to parliament on Tuesday. "Uganda Police Force is issuing a clear warning against attempts to incite violence or breach public order through uncontrolled demonstrations."

Earlier on Saturday, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni in a speech warned against the planned protests, saying those who sabotage government development plans are "playing with fire."

“Some elements, some of them from the opposition, are always working with the foreigners to foment chaos in Uganda – riots, illegal demonstrations, illegal and inconsiderate processions, etc. These people … should check themselves or we shall have no alternative but to check them,” he said.