Police have warned online activists not to go on with their planned march to Parliament on July 23.
Over the past few weeks, the hashtag #March2Parliament has gained traction on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter. This was started by a section of digital activists to rally the public in a protest march to Parliament on July 23. The activists say that this protest is in response to the numerous allegations of corruption that the August house is clothed in. Currently, five legislators have been remanded to prison on corruption related charges.
While speaking to journalists in his weekly state of security briefing at police headquarters on Monday, new police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke confirmed that police are aware of this mobilization.
“Unidentified organizers have circulated placards urging people to gather on all Kampala streets on July 23. However, the commencement details aren’t clear.” said Afande Rusoke.
However, Rusoke confirmed these demonstrations are not sanctioned by the police. He went on to warn the organizers about proceeding with the plans.
“The police force is issuing a strong warning against attempts to incite violence or breach public order. We have observed these as uncontrolled demonstrations.” said Afande Rusoke.
According to Rusoke, the activists are expected to get clearance from the police to organize such a protest. He particularly expressed his worry that a march that isn’t controlled and monitored by police could incite public disorder. This, according to Rusoke, is something the police will use all power available to stop.
“We urge individuals who wish to exercise their rights, such as the right to demonstrate, to work collaborate. We will ensure their activities are not hijacked by those with criminal intentions.” said Afande Rusoke.
Previous Parliament March
Police’s firm warning comes just a few days after a section of voters from Lwemiyaga County were allowed access to Parliament. The voters, led by Gomba District Deputy Resident District Commissioner, were protesting the involvement of their MP Theodore Ssekikubo in land wrangles in Ssembabule District.
On top of getting unfettered access to Parliament, they also addressed journalists on the famous steps of Parliament. They particularly asked for Speaker Anita Among’s personal intervention in Ssembabule District land conflicts.
Hon Ssekikubo has since denied the allegations, challenging the voters to take him to court. He says this was meant to distract him from the censure motion to fire four Parliamentary Commissioners over the irregular allocation of shs 1.7 billion to themselves.
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