NUP’s Abed Nasser Mudiobole Charged Over People Power Parade Participation
Abed Nasser Mudiobole, a lawyer and opposition figure affiliated with Uganda’s National Unity Platform (NUP), has been charged with “unlawful drilling” for allegedly participating in a People Power parade earlier this year.
Mudiobole, who recently announced his intention to contest for Iganga Municipality MP under the NUP ticket, was presented before Iganga Magistrates Court today, Wednesday, following his six-day disappearance after being reportedly abducted last Friday.
Parade Linked to Bobi Wine’s Birthday
The charges stem from a February 12, 2025 parade held at the NUP headquarters in Makerere Kavule to mark the 42nd birthday of party leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine). During the event, NUP supporters were filmed marching in red berets and overalls as Bobi Wine conducted an inspection.
Shortly after the parade, security forces raided the NUP offices, seizing documents and computers. Authorities claimed the event mirrored a military parade, raising national security concerns.
Wave of Arrests and Disappearances
Following the incident, multiple NUP supporters reportedly disappeared before being later charged in court with similar offenses. Mudiobole and fellow activist Noah Mutwe are the most recent individuals caught in the crackdown. Mutwe, who had been missing for four days, is currently being held at Nateete Police Station.
The Uganda Law Society filed a habeas corpus application on Tuesday in a bid to compel the state to produce Mudiobole in court—a move that seemingly forced authorities to respond.
NUP Reacts to the Arrest
NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya condemned the prosecution, saying, “Six days after he was abducted and held incommunicado, our comrade has been charged simply for participating in a peaceful parade. Meanwhile, NRM MPs continue to pass draconian laws.”
Legal and Political Implications
The charge of “unlawful drilling” is typically reserved for individuals accused of conducting unauthorized military-style training or drills, sparking concern among human rights defenders about the increasing militarization of civilian activities.
As Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections, opposition figures say such arrests are part of a broader effort to intimidate dissent and stifle political activism.
