Gen Z Defy Presidential Threats, March Against Corruption In Kampala
The Government’s Nervousness Was Evident As Roads Leading To Parliament Were Heavily Guarded, Effectively Blocking Any Direct Approach By Not Ony The Demonstrators But Also Other Businesses Sorrounding The Pricincts Of Parliament. the Kampala Capital City Authorities Offices (White Hall) Remained Under Siege .
Caption: Video of military jeeps making rounds on Kampala streets July 23, 2024 .
Uganda Today Edition: Gen Z Defy Presidential Threats, March Against Corruption in Kampala
Kampala, Uganda – July 23, 2024: Despite a climate of intimidation, threats from President Yoweri Museveni, and a heavy police and military presence, the determined youth of Kampala, known as Generation Z (Gen Z), marched through the streets in a bold anti-corruption demonstration. Their objective was clear: to peacefully deliver a memorandum to the Speaker of Uganda’s Parliament, decrying the pervasive corruption plaguing the nation.
Photo of a government propagandist hoodwinking the general public that the demos have been postponed until further notice.
In the days leading up to the planned demonstration, tensions were palpable. On July 22, 2024, the National Unity Platform (NUP), the leading opposition party, held a press conference at their headquarters to express solidarity with the Gen Z movement. However, this gathering was abruptly disrupted by security forces. The NUP headquarter was cordoned off, preventing entry and leading to the arrest of several members, including Hon. Zaake Butebi. In a dramatic scene, Butebi, who refused to comply with what he deemed arbitrary police orders, was towed in his car.
The government’s nervousness was evident as roads leading to Parliament were heavily guarded, effectively blocking any direct approach by the demonstrators. Nevertheless, Gen Z remained undeterred. Videos circulating on social media captured their resolve, with groups chanting and carrying placards denouncing corruption.
Caption: Photo of police and military arresting a Gen Z lady.
Caption: Video of Gen Z marching on the streets with placards denouncing corruption.
In his national address prior to the protests, President Museveni warned the youth against proceeding with their plans, ominously stating that those who dared to demonstrate would be “playing with fire.” Despite these threats, the youth mobilized, displaying an unyielding commitment to their cause.
The government’s efforts to downplay the protests were also evident. Propagandist messages flooded the media, falsely claiming that the demonstrations had been postponed until further notice. This disinformation campaign, however, failed to sway the determined youth.
Caption: Video of a Gen Z group vowing to go on with the demonstration.Caption:
As the day unfolded, the streets of Kampala became a battleground of wills between a government intent on quashing dissent and a generation steadfast in its demand for accountability and justice. The events of July 23, 2024, will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal moment in Uganda’s ongoing struggle against corruption.
Uganda Today will continue to monitor and report on the developments stemming from these historic demonstrations, giving voice to the brave individuals who stand against corruption for a better future.
