Doreen Nyanjura.
Former Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura has claimed that fear and political pressure have deeply strained relationships between opposition figures and their relatives aligned to government, painting a picture of a climate of intimidation within Uganda’s political landscape.
In a statement, Nyanjura argued that the conduct of relatives and associates linked to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) reflects what she described as “capture” by the state.
According to her, individuals connected to opposition politicians often avoid open communication due to fear of repercussions.
“Many are too afraid to even answer your calls. If they must talk to you, they would rather use an unknown number,” she said, adding that some choose to publicly support strangers within the ruling party while distancing themselves from their own relatives in the opposition.
Nyanjura attributed the behavior to concerns over job security and political labeling.
She noted that some individuals fear being branded rebels or sympathizers of the opposition, which could threaten their employment or standing within government structures.
The former city leader also recounted her personal experience in 2012, when she was arrested and remanded to Luzira Prison over her involvement in co-authoring a publication critical of President Yoweri Museveni’s “fundamental change” narrative. At the time, she was still a university student.
She said her family mobilized to support her during court proceedings at the Law Development Centre (LDC), but the incident exposed underlying tensions within extended family networks.
One relative, then working at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reportedly attended the court session in disguise to avoid being seen publicly associating with her.
“He showed up heavily masked, avoiding cameras. He was afraid to be seen with me,” Nyanjura recalled.
She further criticized former political allies who, after securing positions in Parliament and other state institutions, allegedly distanced themselves from opposition colleagues.
According to her, many who once shared political struggles now avoid contact altogether.
Despite the concerns raised, Nyanjura acknowledged individuals who have maintained personal relationships across political divides, praising those who continue to engage openly regardless of differing affiliations.