By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) party has strongly condemned what it termed as intrigues within the institution of police following the interferences in its presidential mobilization campaigns last week, warning that it may resort to legal action if such disruptions persist.
Last Saturday, the police sprayed teargas to disperse supporters of UPC who had gathered to listen to their party president at Alira Primary School in Akura Sub-county, Albetong district. Several people sustained injuries in the chaos and were rushed to nearby health facilities for treatment. Among the injured was a 15-year-old boy who was hit by a tear gas canister and remains hospitalized awaiting surgery.
UPC President Hon. Jimmy Akena, who was in the district as part of the party’s ongoing mobilization tours, strongly condemned the incident, arguing that such police actions not only disrupt lawful political activities but also undermine democratic principles.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, UPC spokesperson Sharon Oyat Arash accused security forces of last-minute maneuvering to frustrate their event by changing the venue at short notice despite having cleared with police (IGP) and local authorities.
“The police allowed us access to the venue and did not stop us at the entrance. However, as soon as the party president stood up to address the crowd, they started firing tear gas,” Arach explained,” she explained.
“This shows some level of intrigues that they are showing.”
Although the party has not yet taken legal action, Arach warned that if such violations persist, UPC will be left with no choice but to seek legal redress.
“It should stop! They should not continue doing that and if they do, then we shall take actions as the party,” Arach warned.
UPC’s presidential mobilization tours in Lango, Teso, and Acholi sub-regions began in February and will run until April 2025. The campaigns have now reached Teso region, with President Akena scheduled to visit Kaberamaido District on Saturday, March 1, 2025, before proceeding to Kalaki District the following day.
The police have yet to issue an official response to UPC’s accusations.
