By Andrew Irumba Katusabe
Kampala, Uganda – February 17, 2025
Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura, veteran political activist Ingrid Turinawe, and several other opposition figures were arrested today while participating in a protest at Arua Park, Kampala, demanding the release of Dr. Kizza Besigye and other political prisoners.
The demonstration, dubbed the “Free Besigye” campaign, was abruptly disrupted by security forces, leading to a standoff between police and the activists. Witnesses reported heavy police deployment, with officers in riot gear swiftly moving in to disperse the protesters. Some activists were seen carrying placards, while others chanted slogans condemning political persecution.
Besigye’s Arrest and Detention in Luzira Prison
Dr. Kizza Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and longtime opposition leader, was arrested on **January 12, 2025**, during a public address in downtown Kampala. Security forces stormed the gathering, accusing him of inciting violence and mobilizing the public against what he described as the government’s “oppressive economic policies” and failure to address rising living costs.
Following his arrest, Besigye was charged with incitement to violence and unlawful assembly. His bail application was denied, and he was remanded to Luzira Maximum Security Prison, where he has been held for over a month. Opposition leaders and human rights activists argue that the charges are politically motivated, aimed at keeping Besigye out of active politics and suppressing opposition voices ahead of the 2026 elections.
Outrage and Fresh Arrests
Today’s protest was part of ongoing efforts by opposition supporters to demand Besigye’s release, along with other political prisoners. However, police responded forcefully, arresting several key figures, including Doreen Nyanjura and Ingrid Turinawe, before detaining them at Kampala Central Police Station.
Opposition leaders have strongly condemned the arrests, labeling them an attack on democracy and free expression. “This government is afraid of dissenting voices. The continued detention of Besigye and now the arrest of activists calling for his release is proof that Uganda is sliding into deeper authoritarianism,” said a statement from the opposition party, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).
Supporters have vowed to continue protests until Besigye and other political prisoners are released. Meanwhile, legal teams representing Besigye are preparing another bail application, though it remains uncertain whether the government will allow his release.
As the crackdown on opposition intensifies, Uganda’s political climate remains tense, with fears of more protests and possible confrontations between activists and security forces.
