NUP Women Allege Sexual Abuse During Violent Arrests, Demand Justice at Women’s Day Event

A group of women affiliated with the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) have come forward with harrowing accounts of sexual abuse and violent mistreatment during arrests by security forces. These allegations were revealed during belated International Women’s Day celebrations held at Makerere Kavule, the NUP headquarters.

Hundreds of women attended the event, themed “Women United for Action in Quest for Democratic Progress,” where speakers highlighted the disproportionate suffering endured by female opposition members. Mukono Municipality MP Betty Nambooze delivered an emotional address, emphasizing that women have paid a heavier price than men in the fight against the current government.

Nambooze disclosed that many women have been detained and subjected to sexual violence—crimes they often cannot speak about openly due to fear and societal stigma.

“As women, we face a double injustice. When we’re beaten or abused, society expects us to stay silent. Many of us have endured sexual violence at the hands of security forces, but speaking out is terrifying. Instead of receiving support, we face judgment and shame,” she said.

She further claimed that the regime has deliberately targeted women with relentless persecution, aiming to instill fear and suppress their activism, which could draw international attention to their cause.

Kampala Capital City Speaker Zaharah Luyirika, alongside prominent opposition figures such as Ingrid Turinawe (mobilizer of the Katonga FDC faction) and Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura, called on women to unite and resist oppression.

“Women’s empowerment isn’t just about titles—it’s about courage. I became Kampala’s Speaker not because I was the best, but because I stood firm in my convictions. This struggle is long and difficult, but we must remain strong until Uganda is liberated,” Luyirika declared.

Barbie Itungo Kyagulanyi, the event’s guest of honor, highlighted disturbing cases of sexual violence, including the alleged rape of NUP supporter Olivia Katende by security operatives in a drone.

Despite the trauma, Kyagulanyi urged women to remain resilient. “Many have lost children and husbands in this fight. We cannot let their sacrifices be in vain. Together, we must build a new Uganda—one founded on justice and freedom.”

The gathering served as both a condemnation of state brutality and a rallying cry for women to continue their fight for democracy and human rights.