Four Youth Arrested While Marching to Parliament with Oil Petition

On Monday, August 10, Ugandan police detained four youths from the “Rooted in Resistance” collective while they were en route to Parliament. The activists were planning to deliver a petition that calls for a fundamental change in Uganda’s economic strategy, advocating for a model prioritizing broad-based prosperity derived from the nation’s oil wealth.

Approximately twenty youths participated in the march, carrying placards and banners as they approached the parliamentary buildings. The intervention by police led to the group scattering, with four individuals being apprehended and their attempt to submit the petition thwarted.

Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire, confirmed that the four individuals are being held at the Central Police Station (CPS). He stated they were arrested on allegations of causing a nuisance on the roads and would be brought before court.

Mr. Owoyesigyire also issued a warning to the public against engaging in unlawful activities, urging citizens to adhere to established procedures.

The petition, seen by this publication, urged Parliament to scrutinize petroleum policies, agreements, and investment priorities. It called for a transparent national process that unequivocally places the welfare and interests of Ugandans at the forefront.

The group also implored lawmakers to reallocate national priorities toward other vital sectors. “We argue that Uganda must urgently reconsider whether continued investment in petroleum extraction is the best path for a country facing a rapidly growing population, widespread unemployment and limited economic opportunities for young people,” the petition highlighted.

Concerns were also raised about the potential negative impacts of an oil-dependent economy, including the diversion of public investment from sectors like agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The petition further warned of environmental and social consequences for communities, wildlife, and land-dependent households.

Instead, the youth group advocated for increased focus on agriculture, manufacturing, renewable energy, tourism, technology, education, and innovation.

The arrests occur as Uganda anticipates its first oil production, with hopes that the petroleum resources will help alleviate fuel prices and the overall cost of living. Government reports indicate that the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) is nearing completion, with first oil expected by year-end.

This incident was reported by the Daily Monitor.