Ugandan police arrest anti-corruption protesters in capital

KAMPALA, July 23 (Xinhua) — Ugandan police have confirmed the arrest of several individuals suspected of violating the law during an anti-corruption demonstration in the capital city of Kampala on Tuesday.
Patrick Onyango, spokesperson for the Kampala Metropolitan Police, said that the arrests were made across various parts of the city.
“We have arrested a very big number. The suspects are appearing in court now. They have been charged with different offenses,” Onyango said, without specifying the exact number of arrests.
Activists claimed that around 60 individuals have been arrested, with some already in court facing charges of being “common nuisance, idle and disorderly.”
Security measures were heightened by police and military forces throughout the city to prevent the “March to Parliament” protest, which authorities alleged could be exploited by criminal elements intent on causing chaos, including property destruction and looting.
Activists had utilized social media platforms to mobilize the public to protest against widespread corruption, particularly within parliament.
Some young demonstrators carrying placards demanding the resignation of Speaker of Parliament Anita Among were detained and transported to various police stations.
In April, the British government imposed sanctions on Anita Among and two other Ugandan lawmakers, Goretti Kitutu and Agnes Nandutu, citing allegations of corruption. ■