Nakasongola DPC Stephen Niragire ordering NUP supporters out of the venue

Police block NUP Kyagulanyi's rally in Nakasongola

by · The Observer

The police and army on Friday thwarted a planned rally by National Unity Platform (NUP) president, Robert Kyagulanyi in Nakasongola.

The rally was part of Kyagulanyi's ongoing nationwide mobilisation campaign. Kyagulanyi was scheduled to address supporters at Migyera town market grounds, but the event was blocked by security forces led by Nakasongola district police commander (DPC) Stephen Niragire.

Faridah Nabatanzi, NUP’s head of mobilisation for Buganda, had arrived earlier in the day to set up a public address system when security personnel intervened, ordering her advance team to vacate the grounds.

Nabatanzi expressed frustration, noting that NUP had complied with all police conditions, including avoiding processions and stopovers along the Kampala-Gulu highway. Despite this, the police dismantled their equipment and dispersed journalists, cutting short Nabatanzi’s media address.

At Wabigalo trading centre, security forces erected barriers to prevent Kyagulanyi and his supporters from accessing Nakasongola town council. Stephen Niragire, the officer in charge, declined to comment on the operation, while Savannah police spokesperson Sam Twineamazima claimed to lack details on the matter.

This incident echoes previous encounters between Kyagulanyi and security forces in Nakasongola. In 2020, Kyagulanyi was similarly blocked from Migyera town, where he was forced to spend the night in his car after being denied access to local hotels.

Earlier that year, during his presidential campaign, Kyagulanyi was redirected to Lwamutoogo cattle market after being barred from holding a rally at Nakasongola RC Primary School. Security officials cited COVID-19 restrictions during that blockade.

Despite these recurring restrictions, NUP maintains its mobilisation efforts, accusing the government of stifling opposition activities. Authorities, however, continue to justify such actions as necessary for public order and compliance with regulations.

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