NUP Locked Out of Two Campaign Venues in Amolatar

National Unity Platform (NUP) has, for the second time, lost a venue intended for its presidential campaign rally in Amolatar District, just hours before the arrival of Presidential Candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu.

NUP had initially secured the playground of Amolatar Urban Archdeaconry Primary School. However, early Monday morning, the Anglican Church leadership withdrew the offer, citing a scheduled deliverance and healing service at the same venue, among other reasons.

Left scrambling, NUP officials quickly secured an alternative venue at the PFF office grounds in Aputi-Inomo Ward, roughly 200 meters from the original location. But before the team could settle in, a group of youths allegedly led by Kioga County MP Moses Okot Junior Bitek (FDC) stormed the grounds, forcing out everyone who had pitched camp, including vendors selling NUP merchandise such as T-shirts and key holders.

Sam Ebong, the NUP District Registrar for Amolatar, confirmed the incident, describing it as “disappointing” and expressing frustration that the party now has no other viable venue for the rally.

The confrontation also triggered anger among some residents. Amos Obura, a voter from Kyoga North, castigated Okot’s alleged actions, calling them unbecoming of a leader and suggesting he should be replaced in the forthcoming elections, though Obura emphasised that he remains an FDC supporter.

When contacted by phone for comment, MP Okot reportedly feigned difficulty understanding the language being used before abruptly ending the call.

The developments come as political temperatures continue to rise nationwide, with opposition parties accusing local authorities and rival political actors of restricting their access to campaign venues. The incidents in Amolatar add to the pattern of logistical obstacles NUP has repeatedly faced during the campaign trail.

By press time, Kyagulanyi had disembarked from the ferry at Namasale and was making his way toward Amolatar Town Council, where thousands had gathered in anticipation of his rally, venue uncertainty notwithstanding.