FDC President Patrick Amuriat Oboi, MPs Alobo Joan Acom and Jonathan Ebwalu, and other party members are set to return to Soroti Magistrate Court today, marking the latest development in a case that has drawn attention to the tensions between opposition parties and the government in Uganda.
The group was arrested on March 7, 2025, and charged with unlawful assembly, public nuisance, and assault following a protest in Soroti District.
The protest, which began with mobilization at the FDC offices in Akisim Cell 2, Akisim Ward, later moved to Soroti Main Street, where demonstrators blocked the road and set tires on fire, disrupting traffic.
They were charged with unlawful assembly, common nuisance, burning vehicle tires on the road, blocking traffic, and assaulting three police officers.
They include FDC Party President Patrick Amuriat Oboi, Soroti City MP Joan Alobo, Jonathan Ebwalu (MP Soroti City West), Sam Acaitum, Silus Emiedu, and Isaac Ogaram.
They were arrested during the “No Cow, No Vote” campaign launch, organized by Soroti City legislators Jonathan Ebwalu and Joan Alobo.
According to Uganda Police Spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke, the protest turned violent when some demonstrators assaulted police officers, prompting law enforcement to intervene and disperse the crowd.
The arrested individuals were later granted cash bail of UGX 32 million.
The campaign, led by Soroti City West MP Jonathan Ebwalu and Soroti City Woman MP Joan Alobo Acom, seeks to mobilize affected communities ahead of the 2026 elections.
Legislators argue that while other regions such as Acholi and Lango have received compensation, Teso remains neglected, despite three separate court rulings in favor of its war victims.
The protest was a culmination of frustrations and discontent among the local population.
As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen how the court will rule on the charges against Amuriat, Acom, Ebwalu, and the other accused.
The FDC has been vocal about its criticisms of the government, and the arrest of its leaders has sparked concerns about the suppression of opposition voices.
The return to court today is likely to be closely watched by supporters and opponents alike, as the outcome will have significant implications for the opposition party and its leadership.
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