Minister Bagiire accused of torture

The State Minister for Agriculture faces summons from Uganda Human Rights Commission if it is established that he was involved in torturing his political opponent in the NRM primaries for Bunya West County.

Mr Aggrey Bagiire, who is also the MP for Bunya West County in Mayuge District, has been reported to police and the Uganda Human Rights Commission for allegedly ordering the beating of Mr Musa Omulubo, who contested against him in the NRM primaries.

The rights watchdog spokesperson, Ms Florence Munyirwa, yesterday said the organisation’s Jinja office was investigating the matter, adding that Mr Bagiire will be summoned upon completion of the inquiry to defend himself.

“We shall give him time to defend himself. But we are still waiting for a report from the doctor. We shall also need to establish whether the alleged beating was human rights violation or a criminal offence that should be handled by police,” said Ms Munyirwa.

Mr Omulubo said he was assaulted last Friday. He sustained deep cuts on his head and scratches on his back. He was taken to Buwanga Hospital and later transferred to Iganga Hospital for intensive care.

Dr Mohammed Lubega, the medical superintendent of Iganga Hospital, said Mr Omulubo has been discharged and he is out of danger. Mr Bagiire, however, denied ordering the attack on Mr Omulubo.

Because of the violence in Mayuge, fresh polls were yesterday conducted to find candidates to represent NRM in next year’s elections. Mr Lazarus Mugisha, the Mayuge police chief, said police deployed at polling stations to prevent further violence.