Kampala, Uganda – January 6, 2025
National Unity Platform (NUP) leaders have raised concerns over what they describe as the selective enforcement of Section 160 of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Act, 2005. This law prohibits civilians from wearing military-like attire without authorization.
During a press briefing held at the NUP headquarters in Kamwokya, party officials expressed outrage over the perceived double standards in the way the law is applied. They pointed out that regime-aligned public figures and artistes are often allowed to wear military-style clothing without repercussions, while supporters of NUP and other opposition groups face harassment, arrests, and intimidation for the same.
“Ugandans have witnessed blatant hypocrisy. While individuals close to the regime parade in military camouflage during concerts and public events, NUP supporters are targeted and brutalized for donning similar attire. This is a clear abuse of power,” said Joel Ssenyonyi, the NUP spokesperson.
The leaders cited recent incidents where opposition supporters were arrested for wearing red berets, a signature symbol of NUP, while popular regime-friendly artistes and influencers freely displayed military-inspired costumes on stage and in public gatherings.
According to Section 160 of the UPDF Act, unauthorized wearing of military uniforms or their lookalikes is punishable by law. However, critics argue that the law is being weaponized to silence dissent rather than being enforced uniformly.
Hon. Mathias Mpuuga, NUP’s leader in Parliament, called for transparency and fairness in law enforcement. “If the law is to be applied, let it be applied to all Ugandans equally. Selective justice undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust in the institutions mandated to protect us,” Mpuuga said.
The NUP leadership also vowed to challenge the discriminatory application of the law in court and to continue advocating for the rights of their supporters. They urged Ugandans to stand united against injustice and called on the international community to take note of the growing repression.
The UPDF and government officials have yet to respond to the accusations. However, past statements from security agencies have dismissed similar allegations, asserting that enforcement of the law is impartial and guided by national security concerns.
This issue adds to the growing tensions between the NUP and the government, with opposition leaders accusing authorities of using laws to stifle political activity and freedom of expression.