FDC tells police to keep off imminent polls

KAMPALA- The Opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has said that the forthcoming by-elections and direct polls in several parts of Uganda can only be peaceful if police officers remain impartial.

Addressing journalists at the party headquarters in Najjanankumbi on Monday, FDC spokesperson, Mr Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda said police officers have always caused violence and unnecessary arrests of mainly opposition candidates during campaigns and on voting day.

“We have written to the Electoral Commission [EC] seeking a meeting with them on past election violence. We hope to get a response to ensure that police does not in any way display this kind of barbarism,” Mr Ssemujju said.
Last month, during the Jinja Municipality by-election, there was heavy deployment of police and other members of security agencies and a number of people, including campaigning agents of Mr Paul Mwiru, the eventual winner, were beaten and arrested by the police.

Last week, FDC promised to educate police officers about the Public Management Act which is often quoted by police to stop rallies and meetings organised by opposition groups.

Police spokesperson, Mr Emilian Kayima admitted that some officers misinterpret the law and welcomed engagements with opposition parties on the issue.
The EC week announced elections of over 3,300 positions in 45 districts.

Mr Jotham Taremwa, the EC spokesperson said they received the letter from FDC and were planning to respond on it.

“We are also custodians of peace. Why should there be violence in during the elections? We shall reply to them and make sure we meet them since they are our stakeholders,” Mr Taremwa said.
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