NUP members arrested for allegedly celebrating Kyagulanyi’s birthday in Masindi
Eyewitnesses at the scene, including boda boda riders, said the celebration had started early in the morning.
Masindi: Two members of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) were arrested on Friday afternoon in Masindi for allegedly celebrating the birthday of party president Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine.
The duo, identified as Emmanuel Nsemereirwe and a man only identified as Harman, were apprehended by police at a boda boda stage along the Masindi-Kafu Road, opposite Encot Microfinance.
Speaking to this publication, Steven Wandera, the Masindi District NUP Publicity Secretary, confirmed the arrest and condemned it as unjustifiable.
“Many Ugandans celebrate special occasions at their workplaces without any interference. This arrest is politically motivated and meant to intimidate our supporters,” Wandera said.
He added that efforts to secure police bond for the arrested members were unsuccessful, as police claimed the suspects had not yet recorded statements.
Wandera urged NUP supporters across the country not to be discouraged or intimidated by what he called “cowardly acts” by security forces.
Eyewitnesses at the scene, including boda boda riders, said the celebration had started early in the morning.
“By the time I arrived, they were already playing music and drinking, saying they were celebrating Bobi Wine’s birthday,” said one rider.
When contacted for comment, Masindi District Police Commander Pensive Tukasiima denied the arrests were politically motivated.
“We have not arrested any NUP members. Those arrested were causing public nuisance,” Tukasiima said, directing further inquiries to Damali Nachuha, the Regional Police Commander for Albertine North.
As of the time of publication, no formal charges had been announced, and the whereabouts of the music system remain unclear.
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