Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has issued a stern warning to his country’s youth planning a protest to Parliament on July 23, 2024, advising them to focus on more productive activities instead. The youth are organizing a march to express their frustration and helplessness in the face of rampant corruption.
The protest comes amid a wave of corruption scandals involving several Ugandan lawmakers. In his address to the nation on Sunday evening, President Museveni urged those wishing to protest against corruption to contact Col Edith Nakalema, who organized a significant Anti-Corruption Walk from City Square to Kololo in 2019, instead of disrupting city life with protests.
“Some elements from the opposition are always working with foreigners to ferment chaos in Uganda through riots and illegal demonstrations,” Museveni stated. He warned that if these actions continue, further measures will be taken to maintain order.
President Museveni accused certain opposition members of collaborating with foreign entities to incite unrest in the country. He emphasized that such actions would not be tolerated and promised stricter measures against any illegal demonstrations.
The warning from Uganda’s President comes at a time when fresh protests are taking place in neighboring Kenya. Kenyan youth have taken to the streets to voice their discontent over similar issues of corruption and governance, adding a regional dimension to the growing unrest among East Africa’s younger population.
Additionally, President Museveni addressed the issue of wetlands, urging all individuals living on wetlands to vacate peacefully. This directive aligns with his administration’s ongoing efforts to protect the environment and manage natural resources more effectively.
The planned protest highlights the growing discontent among Uganda’s youth regarding corruption and governance issues. As the date approaches, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and whether the youth will heed the President’s warning.
