The National Unity Platform (NUP), the opposition political party, yielded to the directive of Yasin Ndidde, Deputy Resident City Commissioner of Kawempe, by postponing the much-anticipated launch of their new party headquarters. Speaking in Kamwokya, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, the President of NUP, explained their decision to shift the opening of their Makerere Kavule party headquarters to Friday, aiming to safeguard their guests from potential security harassment.
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The events leading up to the postponement involved heavy police presence on Bombo Road, particularly near the new NUP offices, evidently aiming to prevent access to the premises. The Deputy RCC’s letter cited the unavailability of adequate security due to an upcoming function attended by President Yoweri Museveni in the same vicinity.
In a communication addressed to NUP’s Secretary General, David Lewis Rubongoya, Ndidde advised the party to delay the event. However, despite the directive, NUP remained resolute about proceeding with the launch, evident in the preparation and setup at the venue, showcasing decorated tents and chairs, all adorned in party colors.
Kyagulanyi, in his address, revealed the party’s decision to move the event to the following day, citing concerns about avoiding any potential confrontations. He emphasized that the postponement was not due to fear but a measure to ensure the safety of their guests.
The opposition leader highlighted the government’s reasoning behind the postponement, expressing his skepticism regarding the claims of insufficient security due to the presence of VIPs in the area. Kyagulanyi questioned the validity of such reasons, noting their decision not to give rise to potential conflict and, instead, opt for a peaceful event the next day.
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He further stressed the party’s history of facing disruptions by security forces acting on what he referred to as “illegal orders.” Kyagulanyi made it clear that, in line with the Public Order Management Act, seeking permission from the police for public events is not a requirement, indicating that the police have no authority to grant or deny such permissions.
The NUP leader concluded by stating that, if faced with continued obstructions from security forces, the party would convene and strategize on an appropriate response. The postponed launch reflects the ongoing challenges and tensions between the opposition and the security forces, which have often resulted in clashes and disruptions during the party’s activities.
