Over 50 Peaceful Protestors Against Corruption Remanded for 8 Days

#IvanKaahwaReports

Kampala, the capital of Uganda, was filled with dramatic scenes as security agencies deployed heavily to protect strategic installations against any form of compromise by disgruntled youths demanding to deliver their petition to Parliament. Their attempts were futile as isolated groups were intercepted and arrested in different locations by the Military Police and the Uganda Police Force. The youths, seen singing the national anthem and holding labeled placards, demanded that Anita must go. Those bundled into police patrols took advantage of open windows to mention their names before available cameras.

What began as a peaceful protest escalated into chaos with arrests. Over 60 were arrested while attempting to deliver a document demanding the resignation of the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament. Only one of those arrested during the protest was granted bail. Five of the arrested were detained at Jinja Road Police Station and produced at Nakawa Magistrates Court, charged with being a public nuisance, idle, and disorderly. They were accused of shouting that Anita Among must resign while at Oasis Mall Nakumatt. The charge claims that they acted in a manner likely to cause a breach of the peace.

Over 30 youths were detained at the Central Police Station in Kampala, where civil rights advocates, including the Uganda Law Society President, were denied access. Some lawyers reported that some of the youths claimed to have been beaten during their arrests, and many had not eaten until they were produced in court. At the time of their court appearance, they numbered 50 and were charged with causing annoyance while exercising their common rights. Civil rights advocates plan to strongly object to the charges, demanding the unconditional release of the arrested demonstrators, stating that the charges are baseless.

Although bail was considered for the accused, they were all denied bail on the grounds that it was too late, as the court time had passed (5 PM) and they were arraigned at 6 PM. Over 55 accused members have been remanded to Luzira Prison until July 31, 2024, for peacefully protesting against corruption.