On July 23, 2024, Uganda witnessed significant unrest as anti-corruption protests erupted in the capital, Kampala, despite a government ban on public gatherings. The demonstrations were fueled by growing public outrage over allegations of corruption against Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, who has been accused of misusing parliamentary resources and is under investigation regarding the origins of her wealth.
- Arrests and Charges: Approximately 60 protesters, including prominent television presenter Faiza Salima and several young leaders, were arrested and charged with being a “common nuisance” and disorderly conduct. Many were quickly brought before the courts and remanded without bail, raising concerns about the fairness of the legal process. Protesters shouted their frustrations from police vans, with one, Samson Kiriya, declaring, “We are tired of corruption.”
- Government Response: President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, warned that the protests were “playing with fire” and emphasized that the authorities would not tolerate demonstrations that threaten national security. His government has faced criticism for its heavy-handed approach to dissent, particularly towards opposition figures and activists.
- Public Sentiment: The protests were organized by young Ugandans inspired by recent anti-government demonstrations in neighboring Kenya. Activists are demanding accountability from public officials amidst a backdrop of pervasive corruption, with Uganda ranked 141 out of 180 on Transparency International’s corruption index.
- Broader Context: The protests come at a time when several high-profile Ugandan officials, including Among, have faced sanctions from the U.S. and U.K. for their alleged involvement in corruption. The government has been accused of shielding corrupt officials from prosecution, exacerbating public frustration.
These developments highlight the ongoing struggle for accountability and transparency in Uganda, as citizens continue to demand justice in the face of systemic corruption and governmental repression.