The National Unity Platform (NUP) has called for the immediate release of party activist Sauda Madada, who was arrested by police at Busia while attempting to cross into Kenya.
Madada, a prominent figure in the opposition party and recently nominated as an independent candidate for the Kampala Central Woman Lord Councillor seat, was detained as she tried to cross the Uganda-Kenya border at Busia.
According to David Lewis Rubongoya, NUP’s Secretary General, the arresting officers indicated that Madada’s “file” was at Wandegeya Police Station, to which they plan to transfer her.
Party Reaction
NUP has denounced the arrest, calling it part of a pattern of intimidation and suppression of political opposition, especially as Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections. Party leadership argues that this detention is among many similar actions being taken against its members. urity forces of engaging in abductions and unwarranted detentions of NUP supporters.
Legal and Political Implications
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File at Wandegeya: Madada is reportedly to be taken to Wandegeya Police Station, which suggests a transfer from Busia for further legal or administrative processing.
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Ongoing Charges Involving NUP Members: The arrest comes amidst legal pressure on several NUP figures. Several party loyalists were recently charged with “unlawful military drills” allegedly held in February at the party offices in Makerere-Kavule.
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Election Context: With general elections approaching, political tensions are high, and opposition parties are warning of excessive use of state machinery to suppress dissent.
