The Ugandan Police Force has issued a warning to leaders of the National Unity Platform (NUP) regarding their ongoing mobilization tours and rallies, cautioning that the manner in which these events are organized could attract terrorist threats.
In a press conference held on Monday, Police Spokesperson Fred Enanga addressed journalists, emphasizing that while the police would not prohibit these activities, they needed to alert NUP leaders about the potential vulnerabilities in their mobilization rallies for NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine.
"Some of these mobilization tours are vulnerable, especially in the way they are conducted," Enanga stated.
"Due to the nature of political mobilization, where convoys move at a slow pace, encounter congestion, and experience heavy traffic, these tours are vulnerable to terrorist threats." he added.
The joint security spokesperson explained that they could not guarantee the security and safety of the rallies since they were conducted in open spaces that were difficult to manage. Enanga also expressed concerns about the use of inadequately trained individuals as guards during these events, which he believed put the lives of NUP supporters and well-wishers in jeopardy.
"Some of the NUP leaders are seen standing on the tops of their motor vehicles, surrounded by thousands of supporters and onlookers. This could make them attractive as soft targets for terrorists," Enanga warned.
He urged the NUP leadership to consider conducting their mobilization tours in safer, closed venues with restricted numbers of participants who could be thoroughly screened.
The police's warning follows the discovery of six Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in various parts of the city just a week ago, raising concerns about the potential for security threats during political gatherings.
Despite the police's concerns, some critics have accused the security forces of attempting to hinder Kyagulanyi's mobilization tours, which have consistently drawn large crowds.
Responding to these accusations, the police spokesperson dismissed claims that they aimed to stop NUP's mobilization tours, stating.
"When we come out like this to provide guidance, their bloggers and propagandists respond strongly to this soft message. However, our intention is not to crack down on political activities but to ensure the safety and security of the NUP leadership during their mobilization tours."
Previously, Kyagulanyi temporarily halted his tour in Western Uganda and returned to Kampala after reports emerged suggesting that his life was in danger. The tours have since resumed and are now entering their third week.
As the situation unfolds, the public awaits to see whether Kyagulanyi and his team will heed the police's advice and alter their mobilization strategies in response to the perceived terrorist threats.
