NUP, police clash over blocked Kitgum meeting

2 May 2025, 2:08 pm

By Otim Moses

A disagreement has emerged between the National Unity Platform (NUP) and the police in Kitgum over the holding of a planned consultative meeting.

Charles Ocaya, the NUP coordinator for Kitgum, accused the police of deliberately blocking what he described as a peaceful and lawful assembly, despite the party having followed all necessary procedures.

Ocaya stated that the NUP Kitgum Chapter complied with the requirements of the Public Order Management Act, which obliges organisers to notify the police in advance of any public gathering. He criticised the police’s actions as an attempt to suppress the party’s constitutional right to assemble.

“Other political parties like NRM, UPC, and FDC are holding consultative meetings across the country. Why is NUP being blocked?” he asked.

Richard Onencan Balotelli, the NUP mobiliser in Kitgum, insisted the meeting would proceed regardless. He suggested alternative venues such as the Kitgum Resident District Commissioner’s boardroom or even outside Kitgum Central Police Station to underscore the peaceful nature of the gathering.

In response, Ben Okae, the Aswa East Regional Police Commander, denied the allegations of obstruction. He clarified that his office does not have the authority to grant permission for such events.

“NUP members, especially those in Kitgum, should conduct themselves with maturity. The law clearly states that permission must be obtained from the office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), not from the Regional Police Commander,” Okae explained.

A letter dated 25 April 2025 from the NUP Kitgum Chapter to the Aswa East Regional Police Commander indicated that the consultative meeting was scheduled for 1 May 2025 at Pelican Motel, located along the Gulu-Kitgum Highway in Pandwong Division, Kitgum Municipality.