National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s campaign trail in Buikwe District descended into chaos on Wednesday as security forces repeatedly deployed tear gas and clashed with crowds that turned up in large numbers to welcome him.
Kyagulanyi, who is mobilising support for his 2026 presidential bid, blamed the turmoil on what he called excessive and unnecessary force by security agencies struggling to contain the swelling procession of supporters.
Tensions first flared at Kyampisi, where police fired tear gas to disperse crowds gathered along the roadside.
Strong winds blew the gas back toward the officers, briefly disrupting their operations.
Moments later, the situation worsened when police officers, in the confusion, collided with an Electoral Commission escort vehicle assigned to Kyagulanyi’s security detail, leaving the candidate to travel for a short distance without his immediate guards.
At River Sezibwa, security operatives intensified their response, blocking vehicles they believed were part of the NUP procession, arresting several supporters, and firing additional teargas canisters.
Similar scenes played out in Bukolooto, Kangulumira, Nazigo, and other trading centres, where residents attempting to wave at the candidate were dispersed by police.
Just as calm seemed to return, fresh clashes erupted near the Jinja Bridge, close to Kyagulanyi’s scheduled rally venue.
Tear gas was again deployed, and some of the fumes drifted into a nearby school compound, leaving learners affected as the standoff continued.
