A letter dated December 5, 2025, issued by Internal Affairs Minister Kahinda Otafiire, has reversed a move by Jinja City’s security committee to block Busoga One Radio’s annual event.
The decision followed a complaint filed by Paul Mwiru on behalf of Busoga One Radio Limited, challenging the shutdown order issued by Resident City Commissioner Richard Gulume Balyaino.
According to the minister, police had halted the event after local security officials argued that its timing fell within a politically sensitive period.
In his written directive to the Inspector General of Police, Otafiire said he had reviewed the complaint and found no justification for stopping the gathering.
“I am in receipt of a complaint Ref. BOR/E/2/2025 from Hon. Mwinu Paul on behalf of Busoga One Radio Limited over the above subject matter,” Otafiire wrote.
He quoted the security committee’s reason for cancellation as the fact that “this is a political period,” but he advised that this was not grounds to limit public assemblies.
The minister instructed police to ensure the event goes ahead, noting that fundamental civic freedoms must remain intact.
“I want to guide that the event should be allowed to take place,” he wrote, adding that “in this political period, political statements are not banned and we must be seen to allow political space.”
The directive shifted the momentum in favour of the radio station, which has been preparing its annual celebration.
Police leadership has been asked to review the matter and facilitate the event without obstruction, restoring confidence among organisers that their rights to assemble and express themselves will be respected.