Uganda’s main opposition party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), has accused security forces of sealing off its headquarters in Kampala to prevent the launch of a planned protest campaign ahead of the 2026 national elections.
Speaking to AFP on Monday, NUP Secretary General Lewis Rubongoya said, “The joint security forces — police and military — all heavily armed, have sealed off our party headquarters and we can’t access it.”
The NUP, led by musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, had scheduled a press conference to unveil a “protest vote” campaign aimed at mobilizing citizens, particularly young voters, to turn out against the government in the upcoming polls and to defend their democratic rights through demonstrations.
Despite the blockade, Rubongoya vowed that the party would find alternative ways to spread its message: “Even if the partisan police and military block the campaign launch, we are going to use all available means to have our message reach the population.”
Police spokesman Kituuma Rusoke confirmed the deployment, describing it as a “precautionary security measure.” He said NUP’s planned activities were “illegal” and urged the party to “work within the confines of the law considering public safety.” Rusoke did not elaborate on specific legal violations.
Uganda is preparing for a presidential election in January 2026, with long-serving President Yoweri Museveni expected to seek another term, potentially extending his four-decade rule.
The NUP has faced mounting pressure from authorities in recent years. In February, the party’s headquarters were raided by security forces, who allegedly seized documents, computers, and cash, and installed surveillance devices. Police have not responded to requests for comment on these allegations.
The latest standoff highlights ongoing tensions between Uganda’s government and opposition forces as the country moves closer to a critical election year.
