A Kampala politician linked to Uganda’s main opposition party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), has been arrested while attempting to cross into Kenya.
Ms Saudah Madaada, who is contesting for the position of Kampala Central Woman Lord Councillor, was stopped by plain-clothed security officers at Busia border on Tuesday evening.
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According to NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya, Ms Madaada was informed that her file is being handled at Wandegeya Police Station in Kampala and that she would be transferred there.
Mr George Wafula, a party official who accompanied her to the border, said she had presented all the necessary travel documents when men driving a Toyota Premio intercepted her before she could cross. He added that she was later taken to Busia Police Station, where she remains in custody.
NUP lawyers and officials, including Busia Woman MP aspirant Phanice Akello and municipal councillor Hussein Wabwire, visited her in detention. Lawyer Serius Byran described the arrest as arbitrary and said Ms Madaada’s right to freedom was being violated.
Security sources indicated that Ms Madaada is wanted in connection with a mock military parade held by NUP supporters in February to mark party leader Robert Kyagulanyi’s 43rd birthday. Police declared the parade unlawful and have since arrested several members of his security detail on charges of illegal drilling.
Opposition officials condemned the arrest, accusing President Yoweri Museveni’s government of targeting political rivals. Mr Wabwire said it reflected the ruling party’s fear of growing public discontent, while Ms Akello insisted such actions would not deter NUP from speaking out.
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