Police block UPC-sponsored independence day celebration in Oyam south

9 October 2025, 11:49 am

Eman Yonah Oruk

A planned Independence Day celebration organised by Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) supporters in Oyam South was blocked by police at Atapara Primary School in Ocini Parish, Kamdini Sub county. The event, led by Hon. Geoffrey Owili, UPC flag bearer for Oyam South, was intended to mark Uganda’s Independence Day with community festivities.

Hon. Owili explained that the group had gathered in good faith to commemorate the country’s liberation from colonial rule. He emphasised that Independence Day is a national occasion meant for all Ugandans, regardless of political affiliation, tribe, or religion. The celebration was organised to honour the achievements of Uganda’s forefathers.

Upon arrival at the venue, Owili and his team encountered a heavy police presence. Officers informed the organisers that the event was unauthorised and had been blocked based on directives from higher authorities. Owili expressed disappointment, stating that the school was surrounded by police and the celebration had been halted.

He condemned the action, describing it as a suppression of civic expression. He urged those responsible to reconsider their stance, emphasising that Independence Day should be a moment of unity and reflection, not confrontation.

Walter Opio, a resident of Amwa Trading Centre, criticised the police action, describing it as an abuse of democratic rights.

Efforts to obtain a comment from the District Police Commander (DPC) of Oyam were unsuccessful, as he has recently been transferred from the district.

The incident adds to growing tensions within the UPC party, following recent police interference in party conferences held in the same district.