Police Collaborates with “NUP” for Smooth Nationwide Tour Amidst Regulatory Measures

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KAMPALA – The Uganda Police Force has directed regional commanders across the country to collaborate with the organizers of the National Unity Platform Party to ensure the smooth execution of their nationwide mobilization tours.

Bobi Wine, also known as Kyagulanyi Ssentamu Robert, the President of the Opposition National Unity Platform party, is scheduled to embark on a tour of various regions. These regions include Rwizi (Mbarara), Rwenzori West (Fort Portal), Rwenzori East (Kasese), Kigezi (Kabale), Busoga East (Iganga), Bukedi South (Tororo), Elgon (Mbale), East Kyoga (Soroti), North Kyoga (Lira), Aswa West (Gulu), Savannah (Luwero), and West Nile (Arua). During these visits, he aims to rally support for the party.

Kyagulanyi commenced his nationwide tour yesterday by inaugurating Party offices in Mbarara city. However, upon reaching Mbarara City amidst an enthusiastic crowd, the Uganda Communications Commission promptly shut down 88.3 Endigyito Radio station where he had begun addressing listeners.

 Undeterred, he proceeded to address his supporters at the Global High School playground.

Uganda Police spokesperson SCP Fred Enanga emphasized that while Opposition Parties have the right to conduct their activities, they are expected to do so within regulated parameters. He reminded the public that political parties must reveal the specific locations of their mobilization activities outside of their own premises for security reasons.

Enanga explained that according to Section 32(1) of the Police Act, the police are authorized to regulate public meetings. As such, obtaining permission from venue owners for activities beyond the party facilities is crucial. Such activities should be limited to enclosed areas like Town Halls.

Enanga further highlighted that adhering to proper procedures for public meetings is essential. This includes having a traffic assembly plan in place and an adequate number of stewards. Activities like rallies, processions, demonstrations, and any form of incitement to violence are prohibited as they could lead to disturbances.

National Unity Platform Party Organizers are advised to collaborate with territorial commanders in advance to ensure adequate security planning.

“Failure to comply with public order requirements could result in an appropriate and legal response from joint security task teams”. Enanga Said.

Kyagulanyi continues his tour today by visiting Fort Portal City for a mobilization drive, and later concluding the Western trip with an event in Kasese District on Wednesday.