East African Gazette
Kampala
The security measures in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, have been strengthened by the security forces, which include the police and army, in order to prevent the planned processions by the opposition forces.
This is happening during the global Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit, which Uganda is currently hosting and has attracted more than 1500 delegates from 120 countries.
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Additionally, next week, the G77+China summit is expected to commence at the Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala.
The police and joint security agencies spokesperson, Fred Enanga, emphasized that selected politicians and change agents announced their intentions to hold unlawful assemblies and political demonstrations nationwide on January 16, 2023, as a means to bring about a change in government.
However, he warned that the security forces are fully alert and prepared to suppress what they consider to be illegal assemblies aimed at disrupting prevailing peace in the country.
Among the key planners are Col (Rtd) Dr. Dr. Kiiza Besigye, a political activist, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu from the National Unity Platform, and Erias Lukwago, the Lord Mayor of Kampala Capital, among others.
Enanga observed that last year, there were similar declarations made, resulting in the arrest and court charges of a small number of aggressive demonstrators, who had disguised themselves as participants in peaceful protests.
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“The alleged peaceful demonstrations claimed by the perennial actors, have never been peaceful. They do not liaise with the police to ensure the smooth conduct of their public meetings and processions,” he noted.
He claimed that the actors consistently partake in aggressive criminal behaviors and jeopardize public safety.
These actions include stealing items from roadside stores, causing traffic disruptions, damaging vehicles and buildings, destroying roads (by setting tires on fire), throwing objects at police officers, and using molotov cocktails.
He emphasized that although the Police and Sister Security Agencies uphold and protect all constitutionally guaranteed activities and civil rights, they will not tolerate any activities that have the potential for violence.
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“Therefore, any violent acts committed in any part of the country, under the guise of peaceful protests, shall be swiftly disrupted, investigated, perpetrators arrested and charged to court,” he warned.
He urged the general public to assist law enforcement in identifying individuals who are actively inciting and promoting violence within the community. To report any information, please contact the National Operations Command Centre at 0776999136.