Interreligious Council distances self from parliament protest

IRCU officially distances itself from the 'Stop Corruption March to Parliament' scheduled for July 23, 2024
IRCU expresses concern over unintended association with the protest, emphasising commitment to combating corruption through structured and orderly means
Various members of parliament, including Hon Theodore Ssekikubo and Ssewungu Gonzaga, express support for the peaceful march to parliament

The IRCU expressed concern over its unintended association with the protest, emphasizing its commitment to combating corruption through structured and orderly means rather than through anonymous social media campaigns.

"While we are aware of the challenge of corruption in our country and the need to intensify the fight against this vice, we have been conscious not to respond to anonymous social media activists since this is not our method of work. As IRCU we work in a structured manner emphasising dialogue as a means of addressing any concern," the statement read.

"We would like to categorically state that we are not party to anyone organising the July 23rd 2024 protest to parliament since this is not how we work; as IRCU works in an orderly manner and follows the right channels to engage the people in public offices," the statement added.

To avoid any misinterpretations, the IRCU notified both the police and the general public that it is not affiliated with the upcoming demonstrations and urged them to disregard any claims suggesting otherwise.

MPs back protest

The "Stop Corruption March to Parliament" has garnered attention and support from various members of parliament, including Hon Theodore Ssekikubo and Ssewungu Gonzaga.

These legislators have publicly encouraged citizens to participate in the peaceful march to the parliamentary building, stressing the importance of non-violence.

"We welcome you here... the gates will be wide open. We want you to come into the building and walk around the halls, you can even go to the cafeteria and have some food," said Hon Ssewungu during a recent press conference.

The MPs also warned the Speaker of Parliament, Hon Anita Among, against obstructing the protest, referencing a prior incident where another group of protesters was allowed into parliament. They argued that if such access could be granted to one group, then peaceful anti-corruption demonstrators should also be permitted.

However, the Uganda Police, led by ACP Kituuma Rosoke, has raised concerns about the march. Rosoke pointed out the lack of clear organisational details, which he warned could lead to potential disorder.

"Unidentified organisers have circulated placards urging people to gather on all Kampala streets on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, but the time of commencement and organizational details are unclear," Rosoke stated.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining public order and cautioned against proceeding with the march without proper coordination.