Uganda remains a country where political activism comes at a high cost. The government continues to crack down on opposition members, journalists, and human rights defenders. Many younge people have stood up and among the many voices calling for democracy, Annette Phiona Nakitto raises the bar High. As a committed political activist and mobilizer for the National Unity Platform (NUP), Phiona has been at the forefront of Uganda’s pro-democracy movement, despite facing constant persecution.
Much like other young Ugandans who have dared to challenge the government, Phiona’s path has been anything but easy. She is part of a generation of activists whose lives have been interrupted by political persecution, arrests, and constant surveillance. Her activism, which started as a simple desire to educate voters, turned into a life-threatening struggle that forced her into hiding and ultimately exile.
Phiona’s story mirrors that of many young political activists in Uganda, who, despite their determination, find themselves trapped in a system designed to break them. Whether it is university students like David Musiri, whose academic journey was stalled due to his political stance, or opposition mobilizers like Phiona, who have been forced to flee for their safety, the price of resistance in Uganda is steep.
Phiona’s journey into activism began years ago when she witnessed the increasing political oppression in Uganda. Inspired by the leadership of Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) and the NUP’s vision for a fair and democratic Uganda, she took an active role in voter education, youth mobilization, and campaign organization. Her efforts quickly made her a target for state security forces that sought to silence opposition voices.
Throughout 2021 and 2022, Phiona played a key role in organizing NUP supporters, coordinating grassroots efforts, and educating Ugandans on their electoral rights. Her influence was particularly strong among young voters, encouraging them to participate in shaping their country’s future. She participated in numerous rallies, political meetings, and voter awareness campaigns despite the risks involved.
Her work did not go unnoticed. Authorities saw her as a threat, leading to multiple incidents of harassment, threats, and attacks by security forces. She was forced into hiding several times but remained steadfast in her mission to fight for democracy.
Phiona’s political activities placed her directly in the government’s crosshairs. In early 2021, security forces raided an NUP office where she was working late, arresting several of her colleagues. In April of the same year, her home was attacked and destroyed, forcing her to flee. Even after relocating multiple times within Uganda, she continued to receive threats, making it clear that her safety was at risk.
By 2022, Phiona’s name had become well-known among NUP supporters and Ugandan authorities alike. She was constantly followed by security agents, and her associates warned her that she was on a government watchlist. Many of her fellow activists were arrested, tortured, or forced into exile. Facing imminent danger, she made the difficult decision to leave Uganda in search of safety.
Despite being in exile, Phiona remains an active voice for political change. In 2023, she continues to engage with Ugandan opposition networks, advocating for justice, democracy, and human rights. She participates in online campaigns, speaks at human rights forums, and works with international organizations to expose the injustices happening in Uganda.
Her story is just one of many, but it is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that political activists make in the fight for democracy. Uganda’s silent war on dissent has driven many into exile, yet voices like Phiona’s refuse to be silenced. As the struggle for a free and democratic Uganda continues, she stands as a beacon of resilience and hope.
Phiona’s activism is far from over. In exile, she continues to support Uganda’s opposition movement, working with human rights organizations and raising awareness about the plight of activists back home. Her journey is a testament to the unbreakable spirit of those who dare to challenge tyranny.
The world must not ignore the stories of activists like Annette Phiona Nakitto. As she continues her work from abroad, the call for justice and democracy in Uganda grows stronger. With international support and continued pressure on the Ugandan government, the hope for change remains alive.
