Police Suspend NUP Tour of Eastern Districts

Uganda Police have suspended the National Unity Platform (NUP) planned tour of the Eastern districts of Bugweri, Pallisa, and Soroti.

The suspension was confirmed to the party through a letter by Afande Frank Mwesiga dated July 23rd. Following the completion of their tour of Western Uganda last week, the NUP had scheduled a trip to the east next week. However, police have put these on hold, alleging that the Robert Kyagulanyi-led party violated agreements with police while in Western Uganda.

Prior to the tour of the west, the NUP and police leadership held a meeting on July 11th. In this meeting, both parties agreed to certain standards, including the prohibition of processions. Police say these were all violated and provided evidence.

They cited incidents where NUP supporters were observed violating traffic laws. This included passengers riding on the rooftops of vehicles and people seated in vehicle windows.

“As per Article 43 (1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda 1995, in the enjoyment of the rights and freedoms prescribed in Chapter 4, no person shall prejudice the fundamental or other human rights and freedoms of others or the public interest.” said the police letter to NUP.

NUP President blasts police

However, NUP President Kyagulanyi says these are other strategies to frustrate their mobilisation drive.

“Ahead of our planned activities in Bugweri, Pallisa, and Soroti this weekend, the partisan police, through Frank Mwesigwa, has yet again blocked our mobilisation activities.” said Robert Kyagulanyi.

Kyagulanyi cited scenarios where other political actors are holding activities in grandeur. He particularly accused the police of double standards when it comes to applying the law.

“We have done everything to remain civil and non-violent. They are pushing us to a point where we must RESIST all this madness!” said Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu.

In the letter, police also invited the NUP leadership for another meeting at their Naguru headquarters. This is scheduled for August 8. By press time, the Kavule leadership had not confirmed if they’ll attend the meeting.