The Uganda Economic Rights Raising Front (UERRF) has stepped up mobilization for a planned ‘March to Parliament,’ raising fresh tensions after issuing an ultimatum over the government’s ongoing crackdown on informal traders in Kampala.
The pressure group, led by its president Alex Makanga, accuses authorities of targeting vulnerable Ugandans under the guise of restoring order, warning that the situation is rapidly escalating into a national concern.
In a press statement issued on March 27th, 2026, UERRF expressed alarm over enforcement operations that initially focused on hawkers, vendors, and boda boda riders in Kampala but have since intensified.
“This crackdown, supposedly aimed at restoring trade order, is increasingly perceived as an assault on the livelihoods of ordinary Ugandans,” Makanga said.
The group argues that those affected are not criminals, but citizens striving to earn a living in a difficult economic environment, adding that recent enforcement operations in Kampala have disproportionately impacted low-income earners who depend on informal trade for survival.
According to UERRF, the measures have resulted in loss of income, destruction of property, and growing economic hardship.
The group has demanded an immediate halt to all enforcement operations, calling for what it describes as a clear, just, and transparent explanation of the rationale behind the crackdown and how it is being implemented.
Makanga warned that failure to meet these demands would trigger public demonstrations.
Although the organization initially issued a 48-hour ultimatum following its March 27 statement, it has not yet announced a specific date for the protest.
However, mobilization efforts are ongoing through its platform, where supporters are being urged to participate in what is being dubbed a ‘March to Parliament.’
The group has also called on religious and traditional leaders, as well as other stakeholders, to intervene and advocate for the rights and dignity of affected citizens.
“We will not tolerate this. These policies are devastating the livelihoods of ordinary Ugandans; people who are not criminals, but simply trying to earn a living,” Makanga added.
He further warned that authorities would be held accountable for any continued demolition of property or disruption of businesses following the issuance of the statement.
The developments come amid growing unease over the impact of urban enforcement operations on Kampala’s informal sector, which supports thousands of livelihoods.
While UERRF maintains that its planned action will be peaceful, its call for a mass march to Parliament signals a potentially volatile standoff if tensions are not de-escalated.
Authorities had not yet publicly responded to the group’s latest demands by press time.
