At least 32 suspects have been arrested following clashes and alleged acts of vandalism during the presidential campaigns of National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Robert Sentamu Kyagulanyi in Arua District and Arua City on November 19, 2025.
Kyagulanyi’s campaign day began at Okazara Primary School grounds in Vurra Sub-county, Arua District, where he was unable to address the awaiting supporters.
He later moved through Ovisoni Trading Centre, greeted supporters in Giligili, proceeded to Ediofe Mission, and headed toward Onduparaka Trading Centre, drawing crowds along the way.
According to police, tensions rose when Kyagulanyi allegedly attempted to use a route that had not been authorised by the security committee.
“He tried to access the city centre using an unapproved route, and when blocked, he made a U-turn, but later diverted again,” said SSP Josephine Angucia, the West Nile Region Police Spokesperson.
Police say the NUP candidate later boarded a numberless boda boda, concealed his face with a helmet, and moved through the city centre before resurfacing at the NUP offices in Oli Central Division, where he climbed onto an unfinished building to briefly address supporters.
From there, he reportedly proceeded with a large and rowdy crowd via Rhino Camp Road to Inzikuru Stadium, Barifa, the designated rally venue.
The situation escalated when some supporters allegedly pelted stones at police vehicles, damaging at least four: UP 03271 (SD Ref: 65/19/11/2025), UP M/V 03346 (SD Ref: 70/19/11/2025), UP M/V 00173 (SD Ref: 71/19/11/2025), and UP M/V 7697 (SD Ref: 78/19/11/2025).
“So far, 32 suspects have been arrested based on CCTV footage and are detained at Arua CPS to assist in investigations,” SSP Angucia confirmed.
“We are continuing with CCTV analysis to identify more suspects who may have been involved in damaging government property.”
She added that the inspected police vehicles would undergo further examination by the Inspector of Motor Vehicles.
Efforts to obtain a comment from NUP spokesperson and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament Joel Ssenyonyi were unsuccessful, as calls to his known number went unanswered.
Despite the disruptions, police confirmed that no injuries were recorded. SSP Angucia appealed for restraint as political campaigns intensify.
“We urge political actors and their supporters to abide by agreed campaign guidelines,” she said.
“Hooliganism disrupts lawful activities and can easily result in accidents, injuries, or even loss of lives.”
The day’s activities eventually ended peacefully, with security agencies emphasising the need for continued cooperation ahead of the 2026 general elections.
