Uganda Cracks Down on Anti-Corruption Protests
In a move seen as a crackdown on dissent, Uganda’s authorities have charged and held behind bars dozens of people who participated in scattered anti-corruption rallies in the capital Kampala on Tuesday, despite an official ban.
According to lawyers representing the detained individuals, about 60 people were brought before the courts and remanded in custody on charges including being a “common nuisance.” The charges are deemed “flimsy” by many observers, and the detained individuals are calling for justice.
The protests were called by young Ugandans online, who drew inspiration from neighboring Kenya’s largely Gen-Z-led anti-government demonstrations. The call to action focused on corruption, which is a major concern in Uganda. The country is ranked 141st out of 180 countries on Transparency International’s corruption index.
President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled the East African country with an iron fist for almost four decades, had warned that the protests were “playing with fire.” However, the demonstrators remained undeterred, with one protester, Samson Kiriya, shouting “We are tired of corruption” as he was arrested.
Meanwhile, the authorities have also cracked down on the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) of former presidential candidate Bobi Wine, arresting three of his party’s MPs and besieging the party’s headquarters.
Corruption is endemic in Uganda, where several high-profile figures have recently come under scrutiny in graft scandals. The country has faced international pressure, with the United States and Britain slapping sanctions on several Ugandan officials, including parliament speaker Anita Among and three former or current ministers, for alleged involvement in corruption.
One protester, Ezra Rwashande, a human rights lawyer, remained defiant, saying, “We will ensure these people receive justice.” As Uganda’s people continue to demand action against corruption, the government’s response to this growing movement remains uncertain.
In related news, Uganda Police surrounded the headquarters of opposition leader Bobi Wine’s party on Tuesday, further emphasizing the government’s willingness to suppress dissenting voices.
