Political Messages Banned at Kabaka’s Birthday Run as Security Tightens in Kampala
Kampala, Uganda – Security agencies have banned political messages on runners’ kits during this year’s Kabaka’s Birthday Run, as thousands gather to mark the Kabaka’s 71st birthday on Sunday.
The directive was announced during a joint security briefing at Bulange, Mengo, where officials outlined strict measures aimed at ensuring a peaceful and incident-free event.
Capt. Christopher Lutwaama, head of security for the Buganda Kingdom, said both uniformed and covert operatives will be deployed along all running routes and among participants to detect and deter any potential threats.
He warned that any runner wearing kits with political slogans, party symbols, or altered messaging will be denied entry.
“The official run kit must remain unchanged—no names, no political symbols. Anyone who violates this directive will not be allowed to participate,” Lutwaama stated, adding that items such as knives or sharp objects are strictly prohibited.
The move follows incidents during the 2025 edition of the run, where some participants were seen chanting songs linked to the National Unity Platform, raising concerns over the politicisation of what is primarily a health-focused event.
According to Luke Owoyesigyire, security personnel from the Uganda Police Force, alongside counter-terrorism units and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, will be deployed across key routes leading to Lubiri, the main venue.
He emphasized that only participants wearing official, unaltered kits will be granted access, urging the public to comply with all security guidelines.
Meanwhile, Kampala Metropolitan Traffic Commander Godwin Arinaitwe announced major traffic diversions to facilitate the run. Motorists from Ndeeba will be redirected via Ring Road to Zing Zing Road, while traffic from Clock Tower will be diverted at Mengo Ring Road junction.
Additional diversions will be enforced at Nabunya crossroads, with restricted access towards Kabakanjagala roundabout and the Lubiri main gate reserved exclusively for runners.
Motorists have also been warned against roadside parking, with vehicles at risk of being towed. Designated parking areas include Nnabagereka Primary School, Lubiri grounds for invited guests, and Lubiri Secondary School.
Israel Kazibwe Kitooke urged participants to maintain discipline and avoid any form of violence or hooliganism.
The 13th edition of the run is being held under the theme of promoting men’s involvement in improving family health, particularly in efforts to end HIV/AIDS by 2030. Organizers estimate that more than 120,000 participants will take part in the annual event.
