Police in Jinja and Iganga have delivered a firm message to National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters ahead of Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s Friday rallies: no street processions will be tolerated. With anticipation rising across the Busoga sub-region, security agencies are moving swiftly to control the movement of crowds expected to attend the presidential candidate’s events.
Kyagulanyi’s campaign is scheduled to begin early in Masese, Mpumudde, and St. John Wakitaka Senior Secondary School before culminating in a major rally at Iganga Railway Grounds. Ahead of his arrival, police have held a series of meetings with NUP officials to create clear guidelines meant to keep highways open and avoid unnecessary interruptions.
Kiira Regional Police spokesperson SP James Mubi emphasized that supporters should travel directly to the designated venues. He stated that past processions have brought traffic to a standstill, disrupted shops, and created tension between civilians and law enforcement officers.
According to Mubi, NUP’s Jinja South East parliamentary flag bearer Hon. Paul Mwiru has assured police that he will help guide supporters and reinforce the directive. Authorities say cooperation between organizers and security teams will be key in preventing disorder.
In Iganga, Busoga East Police spokesperson ASP Micheal Kasadha outlined the rerouting plan for the candidate, noting that Kyagulanyi will bypass the town center and instead travel through Walugogo, Luuka Road, and Nakabaale Road on his way to the Railway Grounds—an approach aimed at preventing congestion along the Jinja–Busia highway.
Kasadha reiterated that these measures are intended to safeguard both supporters and the general public. He cautioned young people in particular against reckless road behavior and warned that large gatherings often attract pickpockets and other opportunistic criminals.
Authorities stress that the restrictions are not intended to stifle political participation but to maintain order as thousands flock to the rallies. They say business operations, transport, and public safety would be severely affected without strict crowd-control measures.
Police warned that anyone who defies the instructions and participates in unauthorized processions will be arrested instantly. As Kyagulanyi’s campaign heats up, officials insist that rallies should stand out for their message and enthusiasm—not for chaos on the streets.
