President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda has warned protesters planning a banned anti-corruption march that they are “playing with fire”. Despite being told by police that the protest in the capital Kampala would not be permitted, organizers have vowed to go ahead with the demonstration. Museveni accused the protesters of being influenced by foreign interests and emphasized that demonstrations could only be allowed if they do not cause public disorder. The protesters aim to march past parliament, which they believe is complicit in corruption. Uganda is ranked low on Transparency International’s corruption perceptions index.
The protesters are inspired by the ongoing demonstrations in neighboring Kenya, which began as peaceful rallies against tax hikes but escalated into a broader anti-government movement. The protests in Kenya have resulted in at least 50 deaths and 413 injuries, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights. Museveni’s warning comes as a reminder of the consequences of challenging authority in a country that he has ruled for over three decades. The protesters remain determined to fight against corruption, despite the risks involved. The anti-corruption movement in both Uganda and Kenya highlights the growing anger and frustration towards governments in East Africa.
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