Youth in Hoima join anti-corruption march to Parliament

Youth in Hoima City have joined the ongoing anti-corruption march to Parliament, declaring that corruption must end in Uganda.

This movement is led by a section of Uganda’s Generation Zoomers (Gen Zs), who are demonstrating against the corruption plaguing Parliament and the country.

Inspired by their counterparts in Kenya—whose mass demonstrations led President William Ruto to abandon plans to increase taxes and evolved into calls for his resignation these young Ugandans have been organizing the march on social media to demand an end to government corruption.

Participants were seen holding placards with messages such as "Corruption must end in Uganda" and "We are Party-less."

They camped in the middle of potholes along Kampala Road to protest poor service delivery and corruption.

In Kampala, security personnel intercepted and arrested several youths protesting in downtown Kampala.

Among those arrested at Arua Park police post by joint security forces were Sylvia Namutyaba, Habib Buwembo, Councillor Sserunkuma John Bosco (formerly known as Kaanakambaata), and several others attempting to march to Parliament.

In a televised address on Saturday, President Museveni cautioned the youth against protesting, stating that they would be "playing with fire" if they moved forward with the anti-corruption march to Parliament.

Despite this warning, the organizers vowed to proceed with the march as planned, potentially leading to a confrontation with security forces.

Ugandan police and the army have heavily deployed around Kampala City to forestall the planned protests.

Armored vehicles and personnel are patrolling the streets, with key roads leading to the Parliament of Uganda, including Nile Avenue, Siadi Barre Avenue, and De Winton Road, cordoned off by security forces.

Access to these roads is restricted, with only pedestrians allowed to pass through rigorous security checks.

A robust security presence is also evident at key roundabouts in Kampala, marked by the deployment of armored vehicles and personnel.

These increased security measures are noticeable at major intersections, showcasing a visible show of force intended to maintain order and deter potential disruptions.

Reflecting methods used by their counterparts in Kenya, where youth pushed President William Ruto to drop the controversial Finance Bill of 2024, Ugandan youth have been mobilizing online, particularly on social media, to challenge government corruption.