Business activities have been disrupted in Kapchorwa following heightened security deployment by Uganda Police force and Uganda Peoples Defense Forces ahead of campaign rallies by the National Unity Platform presidential candidate, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine.
Along Market Street in Kapchorwa Municipality, traders reported being blocked from accessing their shops. Moses Chemonges, a boutique owner, says security personnel were stationed at his shop and prevented him from opening.
“Even if he it been allowed to operate, customers would not have turned up due to the heavy presence of uniformed security personnel,” he said.
At Kwoti Boda Boda Stage, transport services were also affected. Several boda boda riders were forced to vacate their usual stages, effectively bringing their operations to a standstill.
Alex Chesuro, a boda boda rider, says many riders have parked their motorcycles because most stages across the municipality are facing similar challenges.”We are waiting for the rallies to end before resuming work, adding that they expect to register losses for the day,” says Chesuro.
Meanwhile, NUP leaders in the district have expressed concern over the heavy security deployment. Kalifani Chemutai, the NUP mobiliser for Kapchorwa District and parliamentary aspirant for Kapchorwa Municipality, says the deployment appears intended to frustrate the party’s campaign activities.
“Security operatives denied the party access to Kapchorwa Boma Grounds, which had initially been proposed as the rally venue, and following last minute engagements with authorities, the party agreed to shift the rally to Tuban Playgrounds in West Division, Kapchorwa Municipality,” he recounted.
However, police have dismissed allegations of interference. The Sipi Region Police Spokesperson, Fredmark Chesang, says the increased deployment is meant to ensure the safety of the candidate and the public, as to maintain law and order.
Chesang explains that Kyagulanyi’s rallies usually attract large crowds compared to those of other candidates, necessitating stronger security presence.
According to police, Kyagulanyi is expected to hold two rallies in Kapchorwa District, starting with Kaserem before proceeding to Tuban Playgrounds. He will later address rallies in neighbouring districts, including Kween at Kirwoko Primary School and Kirwoko High School, and Bukwo District at Tulel Primary School and Amanang Playgrounds.
By Sunday night, security had imposed a curfew starting at 8:00 pm, with operatives deployed along all access routes leading to Kapchorwa Boma Grounds.
The visible presence of security personnel has caused fear among some residents, with several expressing concern about possible clashes between Kyagulanyi’s supporters and security forces. Despite the concerns, NUP leaders say they remain hopeful that the rallies will proceed peacefully as planned.
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