Dozens Arrested in Uganda During Anti-Corruption Protests
Dozens of people were arrested in Uganda's capital, Kampala, on Tuesday after defying a government ban and participating in anti-corruption protests.
Lawyers say around 60 individuals, including a prominent TV presenter and protest leaders, were brought before courts and detained following a march towards parliament.
Frustrations Boil Over as Ugandans Demand Action on Corruption
The protests erupted on social media in response to long-standing accusations of corruption involving high-ranking officials.
They were also partly inspired by successful demonstrations in neighboring Kenya last month that forced President William Ruto to abandon planned tax increases.
President Museveni Warns Protesters of Severe Consequences
President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled Uganda for nearly four decades, had previously warned protesters they were "playing with fire." Authorities banned the march, citing threats to national security. Riot police deployed heavily, setting up roadblocks and guarding parliament.
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Photos captured protesters holding signs demanding an end to corruption and calling parliament a "den of thieves." Others documented protesters being detained by security forces.
"We are tired of corruption," said protester Samson Kiriya from inside a police van after his arrest.
Detention of Prominent Figures and Protest Organizers
Among those detained were TV presenter Faiza Salima and protest organizers George Victor Otieno, Kennedy Ndyamuhaki, and Aloikin Praise Opoloje.
Human rights groups condemned the rapid trials and detentions without bail. "This was a rushed process," said Bernard Oundo, president of the Uganda Law Society. "We will ensure these people receive justice."
Opposition Leader Bobi Wine Reports Pre-Protest Crackdown
On the eve of the march, opposition leader Bobi Wine reported security forces surrounding his party headquarters and arresting some officials.
Following the protests, Wine praised the courage of the demonstrators and criticized the government's heavy-handed tactics.
"The cowards have been arresting young people whose only crime is holding up a placard," he said, adding that legal and welfare support would be available to those arrested.
International Sanctions and the Ongoing Struggle Against Corruption
Earlier this year, the UK and US sanctioned several Ugandan officials, including parliament speaker Anita Among, for alleged corruption.
These protests highlight the ongoing struggle against corruption in Uganda and raise concerns about the government's response to dissent.
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