Police, journalists clash

On Monday, a confrontation erupted between police officers and journalists as the former sought to impede coverage of the arrest of Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) members.

During the clash, journalists' cameras and other equipment were damaged, and some reporters were attacked while covering the event.

Some journalists were seen exchanging words with the officers, demanding the return of their equipment.

The FDC members were marching to the Kenya High Commission to deliver a protest note regarding the arrest and deportation of 36 party activists from Kenya.

At least 13 leaders from the FDC's Katonga faction, including Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura and prominent party member Ingrid Turinawe, were apprehended during the march and detained at the Central Police Station (CPS).

The group was protesting the detention of their 36 colleagues, who were arrested in Kisumu, Kenya, last month and are currently on remand in Luzira Prison on terrorism charges.

Speaking at CPS after the arrests, Erias Lukwago, the acting President of the FDC, condemned the police's use of force, describing the protest as peaceful.

He criticised the police for what he termed as an overreach and noted that the group had formally notified authorities of their intentions beforehand.

“The team was moving peacefully, and we notified whoever was concerned that we are delivering the protest note to the Kenyan High Commission. All we expected from Police was to give us protection and escort us,” Lukwago said.

Lukwago also indicated plans to return to the FDC Katonga offices to strategize on delivering the petition and to secure bail for the detained leaders.

Lukwago said they continue to demand the release of their members and an explanation for the harsh treatment of their activists both in Kenya and Uganda.