Terror attacks in Kampala

Politically, Uganda faces a variety of challenges. One of them is closely related to the country’s military engagement in the peacekeeping operations in Somalia. Being one of very few countries with troops there, Uganda has been threatened with terrorist attacks from the Islamic al-Shabaab movement.

A few weeks ago, Kampala was shaken by a dreadful attack. Suicide bombers attacked The Rugby Pub and the Ethiopian Village, both pubs where locals were watching the FIFA World Cup finals. More than 80 civilians were killed, among them 1 American.

Ethiopia is one of the other countries being involved in the operations in Somalia, making the restaurant in Uganda a “perfect” target for the terrorists.

The Museveni regime of Uganda is using the attack for what it’s worth, and the opposition claims the situation may be used by the president as an excuse for making it even harder for the people of Uganda to organize demonstrations and political meetings. In addition, it could be easier for the army and the police to arrest people and use violence. No one wants to be the ones opposing measures taken to avoid new attacks.

That makes the situation even more difficult for the opposition, already having a hard time getting their voices heard in a media world mainly controlled by the government. Everywhere we go; there are officers with rifles guarding even the super markets and restaurants.

We will keep fighting with UYD and DP, to form a new Uganda based on democratic principles. The first step is having a peaceful campaign and election next winter, getting elected as much DP candidates as possible.

The Ethiopian Village