Chaos erupted in Kawempe North as police fired tear gas and live bullets to disperse supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) who were escorting candidate Luyimbaazi Nalukoola in a procession from Komamboga Grounds.
Eyewitnesses reported that the supporters, waving NUP flags and chanting slogans, were heading to pick up NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, when security forces intervened.
“The crowd was peaceful, but police started firing tear gas and bullets in the air to break up the procession,” said one witness who preferred anonymity.
Kampala Metropolitan Police confirmed the operation, stating that the gathering was unlawful. “The procession had no prior clearance and was disrupting public order,” a police spokesperson said.
Videos circulating on social media show people scattering as tear gas fills the air, with gunfire heard in the background. Some supporters accused the police of using excessive force.
“There was no need for such brutality. We were only supporting our candidate,” said a NUP supporter who escaped the scene.
By press time, it was unclear if there were any further injuries or arrests. However, NUP leaders condemned the police response, calling it a violation of democratic freedoms.
“We have a right to mobilize, and such actions show the state’s fear of the people’s power,” a party official stated.
This incident adds to growing tensions ahead of elections, with opposition figures frequently facing police crackdowns.
NUP has vowed to continue its campaigns despite what they call government intimidation.
Authorities urged political groups to adhere to electoral guidelines, warning that illegal gatherings would not be tolerated.
More details to follow.
