news 31 August 2026 Nile Post
Youth Arrested Again After Marching to Parliament with Policy Demands
A group of young activists from Rooted in Resistance (RR) were arrested while attempting to deliver petitions to Parliament demanding economic reforms and an oil-free economy. This incident continues a pattern of youth-led protests around Parliament resulting in detentions. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/367791/another-group-of-youth-arrested-after-march-to-parliament
Another group of Ugandan youth, affiliated with Rooted in Resistance (RR), has been arrested following a march towards Parliament and the RR Pearl Tower One offices. The activists were seeking to deliver petitions calling for significant economic and policy reforms, including a transition to an oil-free economy.
This latest incident adds to a series of arrests involving young Ugandans attempting to engage directly with Parliament. Previously, four RR members were detained on August 10 while trying to present a petition. The group’s core demands center on shifting national resources from petroleum investments to sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, aiming for sustainable and widely shared wealth.
They are also urging Parliament to review petroleum policies, asserting that economic development should enhance opportunities for all Ugandans. Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala stated that details regarding the recent arrests were not yet available.
The current detentions echo past events, including the #MarchToParliament campaign in July 2024 against corruption, where over 100 individuals were arrested. Protests related to the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) have also led to confrontations, with arrests occurring in September 2023, August 2024 (50 arrests), and November 2024 (15 activists). These protests highlight a consistent pattern of youth activism aimed at influencing government policy through direct action and petitions.
Historically, youth groups have employed various methods to voice concerns. In 2014, the Jobless Brotherhood famously used piglets in a satirical protest against corruption and unemployment, leading to their arrest. Similar tactics were used in 2016 to protest government spending proposals.
While the methods have evolved, Parliament remains a focal point for youth seeking to address grievances related to corruption, unemployment, and resource management. Rooted in Resistance vows to continue its advocacy for economic freedom and redirected national resources through peaceful means.
Source: Nile Post