Uganda: Opposition party to resume presidential campaign as of December 3

Event

Further violence is possible across Uganda through late December following opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) party leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu's (popularly known as Bobi Wine) decision to resume his presidential campaign from December 3. Bobi Wine had suspended his election campaign on December 1 following violent clashes between security forces and campaign members in the eastern part of the capital, Kampala. The NUP leader had also asked the Ugandan Electoral Commission (UEC) to protect opposition political figures and supporters from harassment by the security forces.

Security forces will probably remain deployed in major urban centers and areas with opposition events as a deterrent against unruly behavior. Protesters have clashed with security forces in the past; attempts by security forces to disperse gatherings or prevent supporters from gathering could increase the potential for disturbances. Police may use tear gas, water cannon, batons, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to disperse protesters. Ground travel disruptions are likely near all protest sites.

Context

Bobi Wine has been arrested numerous times after condemning the incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, who has been president of Uganda since 1986. Further action against Wine will likely result in additional protests. Furthermore, election-related unrest is likely to persist through at least January 2021. The campaign period precedes the Jan. 14 general election.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Liaise with trusted contacts regarding possible protests and gathering sites in Uganda. Heed the directives of the security forces. Plan for possible transport disruptions. If violence breaks out nearby, leave the area and seek shelter in a secure, non-governmental building.