Chaotic Scenes in Kawempe as Museveni Deploys More JATT Operatives & UPF to Work on Nalukoola’s Fans

Tensions ran high in Kawempe North today as security forces heavily deployed to monitor the campaign rally of National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Erias Nalukoola.

President Museveni’s government ordered additional personnel from the Uganda Police Force (UPF) and the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JATT), escalating fears of possible clashes.

NUP principal Robert Kyagulanyi, commonly known as Bobi Wine, arrived at Kawempe Muslim Primary School playground to campaign for Nalukoola ahead of the highly contested by-election.

However, the presence of heavily armed security operatives overshadowed the event, creating a tense atmosphere.

According to eyewitnesses, police patrol vehicles, anti-riot personnel, and plainclothes operatives were stationed at various points around the rally venue.

Some supporters claimed they were harassed and blocked from accessing the playground, while others were searched for “illegal” campaign materials.

Despite the intimidation, Bobi Wine addressed his supporters, condemning the government’s actions.

“Why does Museveni always send soldiers to fight unarmed citizens instead of allowing a free and fair election?” he questioned.

Elias Nalukoola also decried the excessive deployment, saying, “The people of Kawempe North should not be treated like criminals just because they support the opposition.”

Even as the rally progressed, police fired tear gas to disperse groups of supporters gathered outside the venue.

Reports indicate that some NUP members were arrested, though their exact number remains unclear.

LINK: https://x.com/francis_isano/status/1896553884317077652

With tensions escalating, NUP supporters have vowed to remain resilient, accusing the government of using security forces to suppress opposition strongholds.

The Kawempe North by-election is shaping up to be a battleground, with both sides gearing up for a high-stakes contest.