The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and police have cordoned off the National Unity Platform (NUP) offices in Makerere Kavule.
The deployment followed a scheduled press briefing that was set to be addressed by NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssenyamu, also known as Bobi Wine.
Kyagulanyi announced a press briefing on his X platform to review the call for the release of all political prisoners, including his recently detained head of security, Eddie Ssebufu Mutwe.
“Please join us today, 2:00 pm at Makerere – Kavule for a Solidarity Gathering. This is a non-partisan opportunity to unite. Friends of Eddie and other Ugandans of good conscience, let us come together in solidarity not just with Eddie but all political prisoners!” Kyagulanyi said.
Security personnel blocked access to NUP headquarters, preventing everyone, including journalists, from entering the offices.
Frank Kabuye, the Kasanda MP and NUP supporter, condemned the security agencies’ actions as illegal and partisan after being turned away from the party headquarters.
“We came here to show solidarity to our brothers being held illegally, but our party offices have been turned into a war zone.” – Frank Kabuye.
Kabuye also criticised Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, UPDF Chief of Defence Forces, for allegedly targeting NUP supporters without cause, labelling it a “witch-hunt”.
“It’s painful that we’re still subjected to this mistreatment by the regime. The president’s son and army commander released photos of our colleague Eddie Mutte, who’s being held incommunicado and tortured.” Kabuye.
Other NUP supporters gathered along Bombo Road and watched from a distance, condemning the ongoing arrests and abductions of their colleagues, allegedly carried out by security agencies.
Last night, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s confirmation of Eddie Mutwe’s arrest on X, coupled with his dismissive remarks about Robert Kyagulanyi, sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many Ugandans questioning the regime’s commitment to democracy under President Museveni’s 35-year rule.
On Monday, the police also blocked a planned NUP meeting to launch a “protest vote” campaign, citing public safety concerns. Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke stated the decision aimed to maintain public order.