Police blocking opposition activities - activists

An opposition activist has accused the Police of harassment and blocking their party activities.

Herbert Majwala of the Forum for Democratic Change and a resident of Bunamwaya, Wakiso district alleged that him and the party youth became a target of the Police and that their activities have continuously been blocked.

"They have arrested me on multiple occassions and released me without charge. The party has also lost strong activists such as Nicholas Mutegeki, Francis Mwijukye who were FDC pillars in the western and central region because of Police harassment,"Majwala said.

"Our problems with the Police started during the walk to work campaign. Since then, they have been following us wherever we go and they even arrest some of our supporters."

Several opposition officials have been arraigned in court on charges arising from their participation in the walk-to-work. They include; FDC Women League leader Ingrid Turinawe, Sam Mugumya, a political assistant to party leader Kizza Besigye,Francis Mwijukye, the head of the FDC youth wing and DP's Peter Bukenya.

However, the Police denied the claims and said they would continue to enforce law and order across the country.

"Every Ugandan has a right to assembly but anyone intending to hold a rally or organise any gathering in public places has to get a permit from the Police. This is done to ensure peace and security," said spokesperson Emilian Kayima.

Kayima urged the public to work with the Police to ensure that there is peace and security.