The National Unity Platform (NUP) has accused security forces of blocking its campaign activities in Iganga Municipality, a move the party describes as unlawful and discriminatory.
In a statement on X, NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya said the military and police stopped the party’s team from holding rallies in the area, insisting that they either move to another constituency or cancel their events in the district entirely.
“We have been blocked from campaigning in Iganga Municipality, with the military and police insisting that we must go to a different constituency or cancel our campaigns in the district. We have made it clear that just like other candidates, we have every right to campaign in every constituency in Uganda, including Iganga Municipality,” Rubongoya wrote.
The standoff reportedly disrupted NUP’s scheduled engagements, part of a wider campaign trail led by party president Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, who has been traversing eastern Uganda to mobilize support ahead of the 2026 elections.
Rubongoya said the actions of security agencies amount to open political persecution, accusing the government of selectively applying the law to frustrate opposition activities.
“The constitution guarantees freedom of assembly and political participation,” he noted, adding that NUP would not bow to intimidation.
Ugandan security forces have in the past been criticized for blocking opposition rallies under the guise of maintaining public order.
The government, however, maintains that such measures are necessary to ensure security and compliance with the Public Order Management Act.
Despite the setback, Rubongoya affirmed that NUP will continue engaging citizens across the country.
“We shall not be silenced. Ugandans deserve a fair political process," he declared.