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 them a permit. 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 demonstrations 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 determined to proceed, sharing their intentions on social media and urging supporters to remember them if they do not return home. Activist Ashiraf Hector expressed hope that their actions would resonate with the public, while others echoed sentiments of solidarity against corruption. 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 undermine the movement. The Inspectorate of Government has reported a concerning score of 26 on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index, highlighting the severity of the corruption crisis. Calls for accountability have intensified, with demands for the resignation of Parliament Speaker Anita Annet Among, who is accused of significant corruption. As the protests approach, tensions are high, and the government’s response remains uncertain.