SCP Fred Enanga, the Police spokesperson, has emphasized their commitment to uphold constitutional rights while firmly rejecting any activities with potential for violence, including unauthorized assemblies.
At a joint press conference on Katonga Road, political figures including Col (Rtd) Dr. Kiiza Besigye, Hon. Kyagulanyi Robert Ssentamu, and Hon. Erias Lukwago announced plans for lawful assemblies and nationwide political demonstrations to advocate for government change.
Enanga asserted that despite claims of peaceful demonstrations, these politicians often engage in destructive acts, such as looting, disrupting traffic, vandalizing property, burning tires, pelting police officers, and hurling Molotov cocktails.
He highlighted the lack of coordination with the police for ensuring the smooth conduct of public meetings.
“The alleged peaceful demonstrations claimed by the perennial actors have never been peaceful. Therefore, any violent acts under the guise of peaceful protests will be swiftly disrupted, investigated, and the perpetrators arrested and charged,” Enanga declared.
The police urged the public to assist in identifying individuals mobilizing violence, directing them to contact the National Operations Command Centre at 0776999136. Emphasizing that similar announcements were made the previous year, the police acknowledged arrests and court charges for a few violent protesters who operated under the guise of peaceful demonstrations.