Tearful Kanyeihamba demands public apology from police over standoff with bodyguard
Retired Supreme Court justice George Kanyeihamba addressing journalists at his home in Kampala on June 10, 2019. PHOTOS BY ABUBAKER LUBOWA
KAMPALA. A retired Supreme Court Judge George Wilson Kanyeihamba has asked Police to publish an apology in newspaper regarding a statement over an alleged standoff between him and his body guard.
Justice Kanyeihamba also decried publication of what he described as defamatory information against him in the local dailies.
“I was so angry with the story. This was made to damage me beyond recognition. This is like I have an illegal gun,” said Justice Kanyeihamba as he wiped away tears.
He added: “I told the Police to make a written apology and publish it in the newspapers.”
Addressing journalists in Kampala hardly a week after the publication of the purported defamatory statements, Justice Kanyeihamba revealed a letter in which the Police apologised to him.
The apology letter dated June 10, 2019 was signed by the Commandant VIPPU, Commissioner of Police Herman Owomugisha.
“I want to state that your advice after analysis was genuine and valid as one of the senior citizens of our country. I want to say sorry for inconveniences caused to you and your family for unnecessary attractions and attentions in the media,” reads part of the apology.
It adds that as a retired judge, he is one of the most vulnerable people in the country as far as protection is concerned due to the nature of their work while still practicing.
“We take your security seriously and I personally promise to work with my staff to provide you the best security you deserve,” said Mr Owomugisha in the apology letter.
According to the publication, the Police dismissed rumours that the retired Judge Kanyeihamba was held hostage by his guard attached to VIPPU.
