Singer Priscilla Zawedde, popularly known as Azawi, has scrubbed her social media clean of any posts related to the recent anti-corruption march to Parliament. The protest has seen a wave of arrests and heightened tensions in Kampala.
A keen observer of Azawi’s social media activity noticed the removal of her tweets concerning the protest. Before taking down her posts, Azawi voiced her concerns over the aggressive measures taken against citizens who speak out on pressing issues.
In a heartfelt message shared on X (formerly Twitter) this past Sunday, Azawi urged the nation's leaders to heed the cries of the populace rather than resort to force and intimidation. "You've arrogantly refused to work on the issues affecting almost 78% of this population," she tweeted, lamenting the use of tear gas and batons against demonstrators. "I hope it won't be too late when you eventually decide to listen to us!!"
The anti-corruption march, organized primarily via social media with the hashtag #StopCorruption, has seen a heavy-handed response from authorities. Despite business as usual in much of the city, protesters armed with placards took to the streets, only to be met by a joint force of military and police. Among those detained were former Rubaga South MP candidate and activist Habib Buwembo, as well as comedian Samuel Okanya, known as Sammy.
Security forces were on high alert throughout Kampala, swiftly apprehending demonstrators. The police had previously issued a stern warning, indicating their preparedness for the protest.
Protesters' demands are clear: they seek the resignation of Speaker of Parliament Anita Among and the four backbench commissioners, a reduction in the number of MPs, an audit of MPs' lifestyles, and a cap on MPs' salaries and allowances at Shs3 million. They also call for the resignation of any MPs implicated in corruption scandals.
