Emmanuel Maruda, a mobiliser and manager of The Nilerz Band, is reportedly on the run following the arrest of several of his colleagues, including Eddy Mutwe and Waisswa.

The arrests were made at the National Unity Platform (NUP) headquarters in Kavule, Kampala, during an operation by security agencies.

Authorities allege that Maruda has been actively mobilising opposition to a proposed amendment, with his campaign activities extending beyond political circles into public spaces.

While reportedly in hiding, Maruda issued a statement calling on Ugandans not to give in to fear and to resist what he described as government oppression.

He urged citizens to continue demanding democracy and defending their constitutional rights, saying arrests and intimidation would not deter their cause.

Kampala Metropolitan Police said the arrests were carried out to prevent potential disorder, arguing that the planned protest posed a risk to public safety.

However, human rights activists have criticised the arrests, arguing that those detained were exercising their constitutional rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

The activists contend that the detentions could undermine democratic participation and the right of citizens to peacefully express their views.

The developments come amid heightened tensions over the proposed amendment and growing debate over the balance between public order and citizens’ constitutional freedoms.