The Uganda Police Force (UPF) has blocked the National Unity Platform (NUP) from launching its “Youth Protest Vote” campaign on Monday, April 28, 2025, citing concerns over maintaining public order.
The planned event was set to take place at the NUP’s Makerere Kavule headquarters, but police officers arrived early in the morning, sealing off the premises and preventing both media personnel and supporters from accessing the area.
In a statement, the Uganda Police Force confirmed their decision to stop the event, emphasizing that the campaign and its associated activities would not be allowed to proceed.
The police justification for this action was framed around the need to maintain public order, a standard explanation often provided for restricting public gatherings and political activities in Uganda. The police urged all parties involved to comply with the directive and refrain from engaging in any activities related to the campaign.
The police statement also issued a cautionary note to both organizers and participants, warning that any efforts to proceed with the campaign could result in legal consequences.
“The proposed launch, along with any associated activities, will not be permitted. We urge all individuals and groups to refrain from participating or facilitating engagements related to this launch,” the statement read.
In response to the police action, David Rubongoya, NUP’s Secretary General, condemned what he described as double standards in the enforcement of the law, pointing out that opposition activities are often curtailed while those of the ruling NRM party proceed unhindered.
He cited the example of Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo, an NRM leader, who was allowed to hold a procession over the weekend to encourage youth to vote for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in the upcoming 2026 general elections.
Rubongoya’s criticism centered on the contrasting treatment of political parties. He noted that while NRM mobilizers are granted police protection to hold rallies and processions, NUP and other opposition groups are met with security clampdowns when they attempt to mobilize supporters or engage in political discourse.