The Uganda Police Force on Monday, March 27, conducted drills to showcase its ability to combat violent activities after receiving intelligence on plans to stage anti-government protests emulating those carried by Azimio la Umoja Coalition in Kenya.
According to Uganda Police Spokesperson Fred Enanga, the joint exercise was held following reports that Uganda's opposition leaders were planning to stage protests over the rising costs of living.
Enanga indicated that the police learnt of the secret meetings and were keen to follow the stipulated procedures.
"Our joint security teams have got intelligence that groups are holding meetings to protest against the rising prices of commodities like it is the case in Kenya," Enanga told Daily Monitor, a Ugandan media publication.
"There are many sections of the Public Order Management Act that are still in place, including notifying the Inspector General of Police about the planned demonstrations. Organisers of demonstrations should follow the law," he added.
According to Uganda's Police statement, the exercise was conducted to demonstrate the police force’s professionalism and use of advanced capabilities and tools.
Ugandan Deputy Inspector General of Police Geoffrey Tumusiime Katsigazi witnessed the exercise held at the Directorate of Counter Terrorism and the Field Force Unit at the Kigo Marine Base-Entebbe.
He further warned criminals indicating that the police were well-equipped to combat violence.
“I want to thank the Government of Uganda for enabling us to acquire the capabilities and tools that are helping us keep law and order in Uganda,” Katsigazi stated.
His statement came after protests organised by Azimio leader Raila Odinga entered its second week on Monday, March 27. Police barricaded roads preventing the opposition leaders from accessing Nairobi Central Business District (CBD).
While addressing residents, Raila maintained that the protests would continue as planned despite pressure from different groups pushing him to drop the anti-government demonstrations.
He, however, turned down a request by his supporters to stage protests on Tuesday, March 28.
"Do you want a protest tomorrow or on Thursday? I am afraid Tuesday will not be possible because we have to follow the constitution before we have one," Odinga told the crowd.
On Saturday, March 25, President William Ruto asked Raila to halt his weekly protests and allow his administration to revive the economy.
He further asked the Azimio leader to back his Presidential bid in 2027.
