14 youths were arrested, linked to a street protest against a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at removing the presidential age limit.

The group, calling itself the White Angels, had staged a moving demonstration across several parts of the city, distributing leaflets and broadcasting messages through loudspeakers. In their campaign, they criticised the proposed changes and called on citizens to oppose what they described as an attempt to extend presidential rule.

The protest was sparked by a private member’s bill currently before Parliament seeking to amend Article 102(b) of the Constitution, which caps the presidential age at 75. If the amendment is passed, it would clear the way for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, to run in future elections without age restrictions.

Although Museveni, now 71, remains eligible under the existing law, critics argue that scrapping the age limit could open the door for indefinite rule. Reports indicate that the bill has already attracted significant backing from lawmakers, with over 270 signatures in support.

Security agencies say the White Angels have intensified their mobilisation in recent weeks, taking their message directly to the public through street engagements. Their latest activities were concentrated around the busy Old Taxi Park in downtown Kampala.

One of those arrested, Kalibakya Mary, insisted that their campaign is driven by a desire to defend democratic principles. She urged Ugandans to resist what she termed as political pressure and to stand up for their rights, adding that arrests would not weaken their resolve.

However, Kampala Metropolitan Police defended the operation, saying the arrests were carried out to avert possible unrest. Authorities argued that the nature of the protest posed a threat to public order.

Rights activists have since criticised the move, maintaining that the demonstrators were exercising their constitutional freedoms and that the police action raises concerns about the state of civil liberties.

Meanwhile, Makindye West Member of Parliament Allan Ssewanyana was also taken into custody after reportedly visiting Central Police Station to check on the detained individuals.

By late evening, police confirmed that all 14 suspects, including the legislator, were still being held. Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Siraje Bakaleke declined to provide further details on the matter