Uganda: Police block Bobi Wine concert near Kampala December 26 /update 10

Event

In the early hours (local time) of Wednesday, December 26, security personnel seized the venue for a Bobi Wine concert outside Kampala scheduled for that evening, dispersing personnel and arresting workers. Police cordoned off the area and halted preparations for the concert, located at One Love Beach in Busabala, stating that Bobi Wine did not receive a permit for the event. A heightened security presence is expected at One Love Beach over the coming hours. Similar action at Bobi Wine political campaign and concert events is likely in the near term and clashes between supporters and security personnel cannot be ruled out.

Context

Bobi Wine, a former musician and current member of parliament, is a vocal critic of President Yoweri Museveni and frequently a target of police action. He was arrested on August 14 and charged with treason, resulting in protests and violent clashes between his supporters and security forces. According to Wine and his lawyer, he was severely beaten while in custody.

Advice

Individuals in Uganda are advised to monitor the situation, avoid any public demonstrations and political events due to the risk of violence and arrest, avoid discussing political topics in public, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.