By George Bukenya
Although there have been some incidences were police have been at loggerheads with Presidential Candidates and their supporters culminating into beating of people which even lead to one death so far in Iganga, Police spokesperson person ACP. Rusoke Kituuma says election campaigns are moving well so far.
“Campaigns of the presidential, parliamentary, and local government are relatively calm save for a few incidents that have been noted. Most of the presidential candidates are adhering to the campaign guidelines and campaign program as issued by the Electoral Commission,’’ Kituuma said
Reporters released videos show the incidence were masked security operatives moving on hidden vehicle number plates were clobbering NUP supporters including journalists but when asked why there were such behavior Kituuma said its sometime necessary for security operatives to hide their faces
He said the violent incident that occurred in Gulu City On 06 Dec, 25 near Bank of Uganda during the the campaign activities of Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi, the National Unity Platform (NUP) Presidential candidate is regrettable and Police is investigating the matter to find out who was responsible such that action can be taken.
“Hon. Kyagulanyi entered Gulu District through Pabbo–Bungatira road and arrived at Awach grounds, the officially designated venue, at around 3:00 p.m. However, he proceeded to Paicho, where he addressed a group of people.’’ He said
He later entered Gulu City through Kitgum road, where a disagreement arose with security teams regarding the campaign route, leading to a standoff. Reports of some officers caning civilians during the event have been received. These actions are regrettable, undesirable, and unfortunate.
Following the standoff, Hon. Kyagulanyi walked on foot along the Gulu–Kampala Highway towards the Central Business District, escorted by Police and UPDF officers, together with his supporters, to Awere grounds, the approved venue for his rally. The rally proceeded.
The Police reiterate our call to all candidates and their supporters to exercise calm, avoid inflammatory statements, and cooperate with security and other stakeholders to ensure peaceful campaign activities.
“At the same time, our personnel are reminded to always exercise their powers within lawful and acceptable limits.’’
“Any actions found to be inconsistent with agreed standards of behaviour will be investigated, and appropriate action should be taken against any officer found responsible.
When communication and cooperation break down, we risk losing the peace and mutual respect that all of us deserve. We therefore appeal to all stakeholders to uphold dialogue, restraint, and peaceful engagement throughout the electoral process.