UgandaToday: Police Quash Red Rose–Led Peaceful Protest in Kampala; Activists Demand Release of Missing NUP Leaders
Kampala, Uganda – 3 February 2026: Security forces in Kampala on Monday dispersed a peaceful demonstration organised by a political activism group known as Red Rose, arresting key participants and charging them with public incitement, as tensions continue to mount over the disappearance of prominent opposition figures. The protest, which began along Wandegeya Street, was aimed at demanding the unconditional release of abducted National Unity Platform (NUP) leaders and respect for constitutional rights.
According to police, the demonstration was unlawful and risked undermining public order, with Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigire saying officers acted to prevent incitement of violence. The police indicated they would investigate the case and align suspects before court within 48 hours.
Reasons Behind the Demonstrations
Organisers from the Red Rose group had called on Ugandans to take to the streets to demand accountability from the authorities over the abduction and enforced disappearance of key leaders from the National Unity Platform (NUP) — allegations that have fueled political discontent since January.
Among those highlighted by the activists were:
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Dr. Lina Zedriga Waru, Deputy President for Northern Uganda, reported to have been taken from her home on 15 January and whose whereabouts remain unknown;
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Hon. Jolly Jackline Tukamushaba, Deputy President for Western Uganda, reported abducted on the night of 14 January from a hotel in Muhanga while preparing election documentation;
Both figures have not been publicly seen since their respective disappearances, sparking concern from civil society and rights groups about respect for democratic freedoms.
Red Rose organisers said the demonstration was intended to urge the Government to release all political prisoners unconditionally, investigate alleged human rights abuses by security operatives, and ensure the democratic rights of citizens ahead of continued political mobilisation. They also demanded clarity on the state of NUP’s leadership and the location of the abducted officials.
Arrests During the Kampala Protest
Police detained at least two activists during the protest. Those arrested include:
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Benjamin Akiso, 27, a former Kyambogo University Guild President;
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Ismael Mayanja, 28.
Both were taken into custody at Wandegeya Police Station on charges related to public incitement and participation in an unlawful assembly, according to the Kampala Metropolitan police. The suspects remain in detention pending further legal proceedings.
Official Response and Broader Context
Police officials defended their actions, stating that the protest was not officially sanctioned and insisting that organisers should follow established procedures for public demonstrations. They reiterated the importance of maintaining public peace and security in the city.
The arrests and dispersal of Monday’s peaceful march come against a backdrop of heightened political tension following Uganda’s January 15 general elections and reports of opposition figures being detained, abducted, or subjected to legal restrictions. NUP has repeatedly raised concerns about the repression of its leadership and supporters, claiming that several leaders have been targeted in what they describe as a campaign to weaken opposition voices ahead of future political activities.
Observers say the incident underscores ongoing debates in Uganda over the balance between public order and constitutional freedoms, including the right to freedom of assembly and expression. Human rights advocates continue to call for clarity, due process, and respect for democratic rights for all political actors in the country.
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