UPC party calls for release of arrested youths

7 August 2024, 3:05 pm

By Philip Onyango 

The opposition party Uganda people’s Congress (UPC) has called for the immediate release of youths recently arrested by government during the anti-corruption demonstrations.

The call was made by Dan Isimbwa, the UPC National Youth Leader, during a media briefing at the party headquarters in Kampala. The statement comes ahead the International Youth Day celebration, slated for August 12, 2024, at Soroti Core PTC, Asuret subcounty, Soroti district, in Teso subregion.

This year’s international theme for International Youth Day is ” Youth digital pathways for sustainable development” while the national theme is “Skilling development for enhancement of youth opportunities”.

Isimbwa said that it very absurd for Uganda to celebrate International Youth Day when youths are still in detention, adding that it’s high time government addresses their concern rather than arresting them.

Meanwhile, UPC has also advised the government to heavily continue investing in sports as a way of supporting the youths and building their talents.

They emphasised the transformative power of sports, citing its ability to unite communities, promote healthy lifestyles, and foster discipline and teamwork. The party says sports have the potential to shape the future of the youth, yet the government continues to neglect this vital sector.

However, the officials highlighted the lack of adequate facilities, equipment, and training programmes, which hinders the development of young people with talents.