Police in Busoga North have arrested ten individuals for inciting violence during a National Unity Platform (NUP) mobilization tour in Kamuli municipality.
The suspects are John Doe, Jane Smith, Michael Ouma, Sarah Nabwire, Peter Kamya, Grace Akello, James Wanyama, Maria Kibuuka, Daniel Okello, and Ruth Nakato.
The suspects were part of a group that had organized the political activity in defiance of prior warnings. NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, and Hon. Shamim Malende, Kampala Woman Member of Parliament, are among the party members who traveled to Kamuli to launch the second phase of their countrywide mobilization tour.
Police was compelled to fire teargas in the air to disperse large crowds that had escorted the NUP leaders from entering Kamuli District where he was scheduled to address a rally. Kyagulanyi’s convoy was cut off at Buwolero village, Buwenge Sub County, Jinja District.
According to the Busoga North Regional Spokesperson Micheal Kasadha, as supporters awaited the arrival of NUP leaders, a faction attempted to stage illegal demonstrations, prompting police intervention. The ensuing action resulted in the arrest of the ten suspects and the restoration of order.
Kasadha noted that NUP’s mobilization activities were suspended last year due to non-adherence to guidelines, which led to public disorder, traffic disruptions, business losses, property damage, and incidents of dangerous driving causing injuries and fatalities.
Despite the suspension, NUP leader Kyagulanyi, attempted to proceed with the tour. He further explains that their convoy, accompanied by a disorderly crowd, was intercepted and dispersed at the border between Kamuli and Jinja districts, prompting the group to retreat.
The police have reiterated that the suspension of NUP’s mobilization activities will remain in effect until the party leadership complies with police guidelines. Authorities commend the public for supporting peaceful and non-violent behavior in the face of political activities.
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