Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has issued a stern warning to citizens planning anti-corruption protests, stating that they are 'playing with fire.' The protests are scheduled to take place following a series of deadly anti-government demonstrations in neighboring Kenya, where clashes with security forces resulted in at least 50 fatalities.
Despite the government's refusal to grant a permit for the protest, many young Ugandans are determined to proceed with the march to the country's parliament. The Uganda Police Force has labeled the planned protests as 'potentially anarchic' and has warned against disorderly conduct.
Some defiant youth protesters have taken to social media to share their intentions to participate in the march, with some even posting farewell messages in case of adverse outcomes.
While the police have stated that they cannot prohibit peaceful demonstrations, a group of lawyers and activists have emphasized the importance of upholding the constitutional right to assemble peacefully.
Opposition leader Bobi Wine has expressed his support for the protest, clarifying that it is organized by the youth of Uganda and not his political party. Wine raised concerns about the government's attempts to undermine the protest by targeting party leaders and restricting their activities.
Uganda faces significant challenges with widespread government corruption, with billions of shillings diverted from public funds annually. Despite President Museveni's assertions of cracking down on corruption, critics remain dissatisfied with the government's efforts.
The planned protest aims to raise awareness about the need to combat corruption in Uganda, with calls for the resignation of high-profile politicians implicated in corrupt practices. The sanctions imposed on certain officials, including the speaker of parliament, have sparked controversy, with claims of political motivations behind the punitive measures.
