The leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP), Robert Kyagulanyi, expressed his astonishment at the Ugandan police's selective enforcement of a nationwide mobilization ban. Despite the police banning NUP's countrywide tour due to alleged public order issues, Kyagulanyi noted that a recent concert featuring popular singers Cindy Sanyu and Sheebah Karungi was allowed to proceed without interference.
On Wednesday, the police suspended NUP's nationwide mobilization campaign, citing concerns about public order, traffic congestion, business disruption, and property damage. Examples such as road accidents and a rally that incited violence were cited as reasons for the suspension.
In response, Kyagulanyi reiterated his commitment to continue the campaign, which has included rallies across the country. He questioned the inconsistency in the police's actions, highlighting the lack of intervention in the Cindy and Sheebah concert, which drew thousands of attendees from various regions.
"I want to congratulate my two sisters, Cindy and Sheebah, for putting up such a powerful show last night," Kyagulanyi said.
"I thank the multitude of fans who turned up to support their artistes. Very importantly, I hope we can all see that the fake bomb scare was a creation of the panicky regime to block our activities."
Kyagulanyi expressed hope that the police would apply the law consistently to all gatherings and not single out NUP tours for restrictions.
He emphasized that the police do not have the authority to grant or deny permission for public assemblies, and their communications were meant to inform rather than seek permission as required by law. Kyagulanyi also asserted that they would not respect any orders that lacked legal justification.
Last week, Kyagulanyi criticized Deputy Inspector General of Police Tumusiime Katsigazi's statement, characterizing it as resembling a statement from a political party member rather than a neutral police official. Katsigazi had claimed that NUP tours could not proceed due to alleged threats to the government made by Kyagulanyi during an address in Luweero district.
"Let Ugandans and the world know that we are continuing our mobilization, regardless of what Museveni, using the police, may do to put an end to our popularity," Kyagulanyi declared.
Kyagulanyi's national tour has taken him to various locations, including Mayuge, Busia, Mbale, Mbarara, Kasese, Kabale, Arua, and Luweero, attracting substantial crowds at each stop despite the ongoing challenges and opposition.
