Uganda marks Heroes' Day under Ebola restrictions amid growing calls for political, civil reforms

Policewomen march during a past event to mark Uganda Heroes Day. PHOTO/ FILE

For the first time in three years, Uganda today commemorates its 37th Heroes’ Day "scientifically." The traditional pomp, mammoth crowds, military parades, medal-awarding ceremonies, and rotational district-hosted celebrations have been shelved. Instead, the country marks the day under a cloud of health anxiety and intensifying political debate.The abrupt shift follows a recent spike in Ebola cases, mirroring the dark days of the Covid-19 pandemic when the 2020, 2021, and 2022 anniversaries were forced into strict, socially distanced setups at the Kololo National Ceremonial Grounds.

While celebrations had returned to their grand, public format from 2023 onward—drawing veterans, cultural leaders, and ordinary citizens across various regions—the re-emergence of the highly contagious viral hemorrhagic fever has forced the government to hit the brakes.

On June 4, the Minister for the Presidency, Ms Milly Babalanda, announced that the 37th Heroes' Day celebrations would be moved to State Lodge, Nakasero, with attendance strictly capped at just 25 VIP guests.According to Ms Babalanda, the decision was a preemptive strike to prevent the mass spread of the disease, following reported outbreaks in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and subsequent warnings from global health authorities.

Data from the Ministry of Health indicates that Uganda currently has 12 active Ebola cases, two recorded deaths, and five recoveries. Given the high fatality rate of the virus, health officials warned that hosting a massive public gathering would present an unacceptable risk to public health security.However, beyond the health crisis, this year’s Heroes’ Day arrives at a time of deep political fracture. Several opposition figures are currently grappling with severe legal and political challenges, prompting critics to question the government's commitment to the very civil liberties the liberation struggle allegedly fought for.

Key opposition leaders argue that celebrating heroism rings hollow when voices of dissent are systematically silenced. Dr Kizza Besigye, the four-time presidential candidate and former president of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), continues to face persistent state surveillance and detentions. Meanwhile, Robert Kyagulanyi (alias Bobi Wine), the president of the National Unity Platform (NUP), remains outside the country after fleeing following heightened threats to his security after the last General Election.Other high-ranking opposition figures, such as Mr