Security Chiefs Ban Political Rallies in Arua Central Business Area Over Public Order Management Act Violations
Arua City Security Heads Ban Political Rallies in Central Business District Over Violations of Public Management Act
ARUA: Security heads in Arua City, led by the Office of the President, have banned political rallies on several major streets in the Central Business District due to violations of the Public Order Management Act.
The decision addresses repeated infractions by supporters of political candidates, including traffic violations, pickpocketing, obstructing ambulances transporting emergency patients, and disrupting operations near key government installations, such as the Bank of Uganda.
The affected streets include Avenue Road (from Arua Hill Roundabout to Hospital Road), Adumi Road, Go Down Road, Lemerijua Road, Market Lane, and others.
Authorities have advised candidates to use alternative routes, such as Enyau Road, starting from Nsambya through School Road to Arua Primary via Ediofe Road, to minimize disruptions in the city center.
Speaking during a media briefing on Monday, July 7, 2025, Salim Kumakech, the Resident City Commissioner for Arua City, warned that candidates violating the directive would face legal consequences.
“Police have recorded cases of pickpocketing by street goons and assaults on bystanders uninvolved in political processions. We have also noted traffic rule violations, particularly by boda boda riders in motorcades, endangering pedestrians.
Processions have frequently disrupted busy areas like Avenue Road, Adumi Road, and market zones. Going forward, all processions—political or otherwise—must comply with the Public Order Management Act. Processions on Avenue Road, Adumi Road, and market areas are prohibited,” Kumakech stated.
Emmanuel Bwambale, the District Police Commander of Arua City Central Division, reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining law and order.
“Non-participants in processions have lost valuables, and as security, we must protect them. As the RCC stated, Avenue Road, Dduuka Road, and other busy areas are off-limits. Processions often block entire roads, disrupting traffic flow. It’s our duty to ensure smooth traffic movement,” he said.
Swadick Angupale, the Deputy RCC for the Central Division, urged the electorate to adhere to security guidelines and remain vigilant.
He expressed concern over reckless driving and riding by some political supporters, which poses risks to public safety.
“Processions continuing past 7:00pm are unacceptable. Campaigns should conclude by 6:30pm to ensure safety. Supporters must respect time limits and prioritize their safety. Risky behaviors, like sitting on car roofs or overcrowding vehicles, endanger lives. Think about your safety—who will vote for your candidate if you’re harmed?” he said.
This directive comes amid rising tensions in Arua City as the National Resistance Movement (NRM) prepares for its primary elections on July 17, 2025.