During a briefing held at the Police headquarters in Naguru on Wednesday afternoon, Police Spokesperson Fred Enanga announced that Maj Gen Katsigazi had conveyed a message to the media. In the statement, it was highlighted that NUP leaders had purposefully violated police guidelines, which had previously been emphasized for their compliance.
One of the stipulated conditions in the document was that Bobi Wine was required to conduct his mobilization gatherings within closed halls. This measure was intended to enable the Police and other security agencies to ensure the safety and security of the attendees. However, it was noted that Bobi Wine consistently organized his gatherings in open spaces, rendering them vulnerable to potential terror attacks.
The statement further elaborated: "While we fully support the right of individuals, groups, and citizens to peacefully assemble and express their opinions on matters of public concern, we have observed that in all locations where NUP mobilization activities have taken place, there have been persistent violations of these guidelines. These violations have resulted in public disorder, unnecessary traffic congestion, disruptions to businesses, and instances of property damage."
As an illustrative example, in Mbarara City, NUP's unruly supporters were responsible for the vandalization of a Toyota Hiace bearing registration number UBD 251J. They also caused multiple traffic accidents, including a tragic one that occurred in Hoima City on September 11, 2023, resulting in the unfortunate death of Mugisa Norman and serious injuries to ten others. These incidents unfolded during the NUP convoy.
Maj Gen Katsigazi further attributes the blame to Bobi Wine for inciting sectarianism and violence in his address to a gathering in Luweero district the previous week. The statement highlights that during the Kasana-Luweero District mobilization activity, there were attempts to incite violence, foster sectarian divisions, make unlawful calls for the removal of an elected government, and disseminate defamatory statements against the President of the Republic of Uganda.
Due to these blatant breaches of police guidelines, the activities of the NUP have been promptly suspended. The statement emphasizes that this announcement follows the communication made on September 12, 2023, to the NUP leadership, wherein planned mobilization activities and office openings were halted until compliance with guidelines and the rule of law is ensured.
Maj Gen Katsigazi issues a stern warning, asserting that the Police and sister security agencies have comprehensive plans in place to uphold the rule of law. They will collaborate with other stakeholders to respond appropriately to all those who incite violence, which could potentially lead to civil unrest across the nation.
The statement emphatically declares that Uganda will not stand idly by while its villages, towns, urban centers, and cities are subjected to turmoil. Actions will be taken to safeguard citizens and property, putting an end to the mob mentality, bullying, and intimidating tactics employed by NUP radicals against innocent civilians and law enforcement personnel.
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