PLU Supporters March to Turkish Embassy in Kampala Over Lumbuye Extradition Fears
KAMPALA, Uganda – Supporters of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) marched to the Turkish Embassy in Kampala on the morning of September 18, following a directive from their leader and Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba. The demonstration stems from opposition to Turkey potentially extraditing Ugandan exile and government critic Fred Lumbuye.
According to a post by PLU General Secretary Twalla Fadil, supporters and well-wishers were instructed to meet at Lugogo Cricket Oval at exactly 8:00 AM. Fadil requested participants to “keep time, and exhibit the highest level of discipline as we express our discontent with the Turkish Government.” He also issued a stern warning, stating that “wrong doers should not attempt to interfere with our procession because security will handle them with metallic hands.”
Visuals from the scene show crowds marching in matching black and red t-shirts, carrying yellow flags bearing portraits and PLU branding. The Daily Monitor reported that the specific reason for the demonstration was initially undisclosed, though subsequent information clarified the focus on the extradition issue. The Turkish Embassy in Kampala reportedly closed ahead of the protest.
The protest follows a diplomatic meeting between President Yoweri Museveni and the Turkish Ambassador, alongside Foreign Affairs Minister in charge of Regional Cooperation Haruna Kasolo, held on the sidelines of the Kampala Storage Terminal groundbreaking ceremony the previous day. Commenting on the situation, journalist Canary Mugume noted, “Looks like the issues weren’t resolved in yesterday’s meeting.”
At the heart of the demonstration is Fred Lumbuye, a vocal critic of President Museveni living in exile in Turkey. According to a summary of posts on X, the PLU refers to Lumbuye as a freedom fighter who faces a potential death sentence if returned to Uganda. Ugandan authorities are seeking his extradition over online criticism, but Turkey has refused, citing refugee protections amid rising diplomatic tensions.
The demonstration has sparked online discourse regarding human rights and diplomatic relations. One X user, @goodhe4rted, voiced strong opposition to the potential extradition, stating: “Turkey Government, DO NOT HAND HIM OVER! Sending Fred Lumbuye back to Uganda isn’t an act of diplomacy it is a potential death sentence. He is a human being, not a bargaining chip. He needs protection, not persecution. Turkey, respect human rights. Don’t let politics extinguish a life.”
As the situation evolves, the PLU maintains its call for discipline among its supporters while pressing its stance against the Turkish government regarding Lumbuye’s status.
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