BUSIA – Saudah Madada, a prominent supporter of the National Unity Platform (NUP) and its president, Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), has been repeatedly arrested and detained by security operatives in Busia, according to latest reports.
Madada, who is referred to by the NUP rank-and-file as a “General,” is alleged to be on a security watch list for her alleged involvement in activities deemed threatening to state security.
Security agencies accuse her of being among a group of NUP foot soldiers who participated in an unauthorized military-style parade. This event is said to have taken place at the party’s headquarters in Kavule, a suburb of Kampala.
Ugandan law requires any person or group wishing to conduct a military-like exercise to seek written permission from the Minister of Defence. Authorities claim the NUP members proceeded with the parade without this authorization, an act they consider a serious breach of public order.
The parade was reportedly perceived as a direct challenge to the state, prompting strong reactions from the highest levels of the military. Top army officials publicly issued stern warnings against such activities, stating that any group mimicking a military force would be dealt with decisively.
The repeated detention of Madada in Busia, a key border town, suggests an ongoing effort by security forces to disrupt the operations and movements of individuals they believe are involved in organizing what they call unlawful paramilitary activities. The arrests highlight the continued tensions between the state and opposition groups over matters of public assembly and security.
