According to the local press, clashes broke out on the fringes of a spontaneous demonstration staged in Kampala today, 18 November, in condemnation of the arrest of opponent Bobi Wine (Robert Kyagulanyi), candidate for the National Unity Platform (NUP) in the presidential elections scheduled 14 January 2021.

He was arrested by the security forces this morning during a rally in Luuka following clashes between his supporters and law enforcement, before being taken to Nalifenya  police station in Jinja.

In Kampala, supporters blocked the roads and set fire to tyres, notably in the Kiseka Market and Wandegeya areas, causing the police to intervene with the use of tear gas and rubber bullets in order to disperse the mob. There were also reports of live rounds being fired. Several people are believed to have been injured.

Rallies have been reported in other towns in the country, such as Jinja, Masaka, Iganga and Arua.

We remind you that Bobi Wine is arrested by the security forces on a regular basis. For example, he was apprehended 3 November after he submitted his candidacy for the presidential elections (SSF 04/11/2020). Unrest had also been reported the same day on the fringes of an opposition rally.

Ongoing demonstrations and tension should be expected in the coming hours and days. It is advisable to keep well away from all mob movements due to the risk of clashes.

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