By Spy Uganda
Kampala: Uganda Police has issued a stern warning to youth intending to march to parliament in the ongoing anti-corruption protest, advising them to prepare for potential consequences.
The warning has been re-echoed by Police spokesperson, Kituuma Rusoke noting that despite efforts to persuade the organizers to drop the planned protests, they their advice has fallen onto deaf ears.
”In an effort to dissuade the organizers from this potentially anarchic approach, UPF met with them on July 18, 2024, at police headquarters. Following a thorough security assessment regarding the feasibility of a political procession, the UPF has formally advised the organizers and urges them to heed this counsel” Rusoke said in a statement.
“We reiterate our position we shall not tolerate disorderly conduct. We understand, feel and acknowledge the existence of rights of individuals but we have a duty to keep law and order that we can’t run away from. We can’t delegate or gamble over this duty,” he added.
Rusoke’s warning mirrors President Museveni’s caution to the group planning the protest, stating that they would be “playing with fire” if they proceed with the anti-corruption march to parliament on Tuesday.
According to Museveni, certain elements, including some opposition figures” are collaborating with foreigners to incite chaos through riots and illegal demonstrations.
“If these actions continue, further measures may be taken, inconsiderate processions and riots” would not be tolerated in the city center. These people are unfair and inconsiderate and should check themselves or we will have no alternative but to check them. When you demonstrate in a place like Kampala, people are selling their products on the roadside. Are you going to step on people’s products? You are playing. Do not have such ideas in your head.” Museveni said while addressing the Nation on Saturday last week.
Museveni further advised those wishing to protest against corruption to contact Col. Edith Nakalema, who organized an Anti-Corruption Walk in 2019, to avoid disrupting city life.
Despite the warnings, the organizers of the protest remain resolute and determined to carry on with the march which they say is against the rampant corruption in the Country.
For months now, youths have been using social media to mobilize Ugandans to occupy all streets in Kampala as part of their march to parliament.
The angry youths draw inspiration from their counterparts in Kenya, whose organized mass demonstrations compelled President William Ruto to drop the proposed finance bill and firing his entire cabinet.
