By Our Reporter,
KAMPALA
Anti-corruption activists in Uganda are living in fear, with many forced into hiding, their whereabouts unknown, following alleged persecution by security forces for organizing protests.
Over 50 young individuals were arrested and remanded to various prisons for their participation in the “Walk to Parliament” protest. Among those detained were Kirya Samson, Faiza Salima, George Victor Othieno, Allan Wanyama, and Aloikin Parise Opoloje, among others.
Reports from some of the released detainees reveal they were brutally beaten with batons by both police officers and men in military attire while in custody. A member of the National Unity Platform (NUP), recently released, echoed similar claims, adding that he suffered the loss of his teeth during the assault.
In a national address, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni alleged that the anti-corruption demonstrations were financially supported by foreign governments, aiming to destabilize Kampala’s peace and promote homosexuality. The president vowed to crush any individuals collaborating with foreign powers against Uganda’s national interests.
The president’s remarks have heightened the pressure on anti-corruption and pro-democracy activists, driving many to flee the country. Additionally, social media activists associated with the Agora Foundation, including Agatha Atuhaire, Godwin Toko, and Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo, have become targets of government criticism and online attacks by pro-government supporters, who accuse them of receiving foreign funds to fuel protests.
