We are fighting for you anti-graft protestors tell policemen arresting them

The streets of Kampala witnessed renewed energy and defiance on July 25, 2024, as youthful anti-corruption protesters returned to demand action from Parliament and President Yoweri Museveni’s government. Amid heightened security and a substantial police presence, the protesters made impassioned pleas to the law enforcement officers detaining them, declaring, “We are fighting for you…we are your children.”

The latest wave of anti-corruption protests, dubbed the “March to Parliament,” marks a significant moment in Uganda’s ongoing struggle against pervasive corruption. With police stationed in large numbers to prevent the demonstrations, the protesters’ resolve has remained unwavering. Many of the demonstrators have likened their struggle to Uganda’s pivotal moments in history, calling it “our 1986 moment,” referring to the year when President Museveni’s government first came to power.

The protesters are demanding urgent reforms and accountability from the Ugandan Parliament and President Museveni’s administration. Their primary focus is on addressing systemic corruption within the government, which they believe undermines democratic governance and public trust.

In a bid to curb the protests, police officers have taken a defensive stance across major areas in Kampala. The security personnel are conducting thorough checks and are reported to have forcibly dispersed groups attempting to assemble. Despite these measures, the protesters have remained vocal, insisting on their right to peacefully express their dissatisfaction with the current state of governance.

As they faced arrest, many protesters expressed their frustration directly to the police, emphasizing their connection to the broader struggle for justice. Their chants and statements reflect a deep-seated belief in their cause and a determination to push for meaningful change, even in the face of significant resistance.

The ongoing protests have garnered attention and support from various quarters, including segments of the public who share the protesters’ concerns about corruption. The demonstrators’ persistence underscores a growing demand for transparency and accountability within the Ugandan government.

The situation remains dynamic as the government continues to respond to the protests with a robust security presence. The protesters’ calls for reform highlight a critical juncture in Uganda’s political landscape, with the youth playing a central role in advocating for systemic change.

The outcome of these protests could have significant implications for the future of governance and democratic engagement in Uganda. As the nation grapples with issues of corruption and accountability, the voices of these youthful activists are likely to remain a focal point in the ongoing discourse.