FDC Leaders Arrested During Peaceful Protest in Kampala

At least 13 leaders from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Katonga faction have been arrested and detained at the Central Police Station (CPS), the acting President of the party, Mr. Erias Lukwago, has confirmed.

Among the arrested were notable FDC leaders, including Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura and Ingrid Turinawe. The arrests occurred on Monday, August 5, 2024, as the group attempted to march to the Kenya High Commission to deliver a petition. The petition protested the alleged unfair treatment of 36 colleagues arrested in Kisumu, Kenya, last month and subsequently deported to Uganda. The 36 individuals are currently on remand in Luzira Prison, facing terrorism charges.

Speaking to journalists at CPS, Lukwago condemned the police’s use of force, emphasizing that the protest was peaceful and that such measures were unjustified. He announced plans to return to Katonga to strategize on how to deliver the petition and to seek bail for the detained leaders.

“The team was moving peacefully, and we notified all relevant authorities that we were delivering a protest note to the Kenyan High Commission. All we expected from the police was protection and an escort,” Mr. Lukwago stated.