By Insight Post Uganda
Kampala-Uganda
The streets of Kampala on Tuesday hung heavy with tension as four activists were arrested and detained during a peaceful StopEACOP protest. However, their arrest has attracted the attention of concerned citizens and human rights advocates across the world with persistent calls for their immediate release.
The detained activists including Bob Barigye, Zarika Mutesi, Shamim Naruwada, and Phionah Nalusiba had been protesting against the injustices embedded in the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), but their zealous calls for justice met with the harsh grip of the law.
According to the detainees, their hopes for a better future were temporarily dashed as false charges of inciting violence had been slapped against them, in an attempt to justify their unwarranted confinement.
Members of StopECOP movement have explained that videos and pictures circulated widely on different social media platforms, showcasing the unyielding force with which the police used upon the peaceful protesters.
“But instead of embracing dialogue and addressing the legitimate concerns of its citizens, the authorities had chosen a different path. In the face of peaceful dissent, they responded with repression,” a statement from the movement indicated, adding that the authorities attempt to distort the narrative crumbled in the face of the undeniable evidence that spoke volumes.
According to the movement, the EACOP project had cast its long shadow over the nation, drawing the fury and resistance of communities on the frontlines. Concerns over its environmental ramifications and the upheaval it would bring to the lives of those in its path had ignited an intense debate.
As the world grapples with the pressing need to combat climate change and shift towards renewable energy, it is crucial to reassess the pursuit of new fossil fuel projects.
The movement has urged the governments of Uganda and Tanzania, as well as the companies involved in the EACOP project (TotalEnergies and China National Offshore Oil Corporation), and financial institutions considering financing or insuring this controversial project, to reconsider their stance.
It’s vital to prioritise sustainable development and redirect focus towards renewable energy alternatives. These alternatives not only benefit the environment but also provide long-term advantages for local communities already affected by the negative impacts of the EACOP project.
Recently, Sharif Bagiire was arrested for participating in a protest alongside students who were opposing the controversial EACOP project. When viewed in conjunction with past arrests of activists opposing EACOP, the detention of these peaceful protestors reveals a troubling pattern of intimidation and suppression against those who voice their opposition to this project.
Zaki Mamdoo, StopEACOP Campaign Coordinator, emphasized, “The arrests of these activists are a clear attempt to silence dissent and suppress opposition to the EACOP. We call upon the international community and civil society organizations to join us in condemning these arrests and demanding justice for those detained.”
Samuel Okulony, Director of the Environment Governance Institute Uganda, asserted, “It is not a crime to express opposition to the controversial EACOP project or to advocate for exploring alternative, sustainable solutions. Peaceful protest and dialogue are fundamental pillars of a democratic society, and these rights must be protected and upheld.”
Brian Atuheire, Director of AIFE – Uganda, expressed concern, stating, “Our colleague Bob and three women are once again in danger because the people who harm the environment and destroy communities will do anything to keep making profits”.
“Arrests and threats against activists will not deter us from fighting for Mother Nature. We demand the release of the activists without any conditions since there is no valid case against them. The government of Uganda must respect the right to protest.”
Kayinga Muddu Yisito, Network Coordinator of the Community Transformation Foundation Network (COTFONE) in Uganda, emphasised, “Activists are not terrorists. The government and oil companies must cease their persecution of climate activists and human rights defenders. Instead, they should listen to the message behind their call and transition to clean energy for the well-being of all Ugandans.”
Charity Migwi, Africa Regional Campaigner at 350.org, strongly condemns the ongoing intimidation and arrests of activists protesting against the Oil Pipeline.
“These activists were exercising their democratic right to peacefully protest against a project they believe will have devastating consequences for the environment and the people of Uganda and beyond. The Ugandan government should immediately release the arrested activists and drop all charges against them.”
Recently, Human Rights Watch released a report detailing human rights violations and the environmental impacts of the EACOP project.
The anti-EACOP Campaign
The global #StopEACOP campaign aims to halt the construction of the East African Crude Oil pipeline (EACOP), a proposed 1,443-kilometer heated pipeline designed to transport oil from Hoima, Uganda, to the port of Tanga in Tanzania. This campaign is led by a coalition consisting of local groups, communities, and African and global organizations.
The #StopEACOP Coalition has been tirelessly advocating for an end to the planned pipeline and the associated oil fields at Tilenga and Kingfisher. With each passing day, the #StopEACOP campaign gains more momentum, increasing the pressure on the remaining supporters and financiers of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline.
Recent announcements from AEGIS London, Arch Capital Group Ltd, and Britam Holdings have indicated that they will not provide insurance coverage for the project.
Thus far, 27 major banks and 23 major (re)insurers have also pledged not to support the pipeline. However, there are still some significant financial institutions, such as ICBC and Standard Bank, who have yet to make a commitment to refrain from funding the EACOP.
The campaign continues to push forward, mobilizing global efforts to ensure the pipeline project is halted, and raising awareness about the environmental and social implications it carries.
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