Uganda Braces for Protests Amid Rising Corruption Concerns

Uganda is preparing for significant protests as young activists plan to march to parliament on July 23, despite police denying a permit for the demonstration. The protests are fueled by widespread discontent over corruption, with activists citing the diversion of approximately $2.7 billion in public funds annually. The unrest follows deadly anti-government protests in neighboring Kenya, where at least 50 people were killed in clashes with security forces, raising fears of similar violence in Uganda. President Yoweri Museveni has warned against the protests, stating, “You are playing with fire because we cannot allow you to disturb us.” However, many young Ugandans are undeterred, sharing their intentions to participate on social media and urging others to remember them if they do not return home. Activist Ashiraf Hector expressed determination to join the march, highlighting the urgency of addressing escalating corruption in the country. Opposition leader Bobi Wine has voiced support for the protests, clarifying that they are organized by the youth and not his National Unity Platform (NUP) party. He criticized the government’s attempts to frame the protests as a partisan issue, asserting that the regime aims to weaken the movement. The Inspectorate of Government has reported a low score of 26 on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index, indicating a high level of corruption in Uganda. Protesters are also calling for the resignation of Parliament Speaker Anita Annet Among, citing her alleged involvement in significant corruption. The U.S. State Department has echoed these concerns, further intensifying the call for accountability and reform within the Ugandan government.