Mao to police: You’re frustrating multiparty democracy

Democratic Party (DP) candidate Norbert Mao was Wednesday forced to leave Kamuli District after police fired teargas to block him from meeting his supporters as he looks for votes ahead of 2021 presidential election.

No sooner had Mao arrived in Kamuli Twon than security operatives led by the District Police Commander, Ahmed Madiri swung into action to stop him from meeting the electorate. They ordered him to turn back to Kampala. 

“I know you are eager to please your bosses but you must understand that  you are stifling multiparty democracy, undermining the electorate’s power and right to choices but also doing a disservice to the nation,” Mr Mao said  as he was forced to retreat and turn away as he greeted his people near the Taxi park.

He was led out of Kamuli Town by police officers who had earlier fired teargas to disperse the unrelenting crowds.

“I appreciate your support and the price we are paying to restore democracy. Let us keep the pressure on because there will always be sunshine after the rains, however, heavy the downpour. Sooner than later truth and justice will come,” Mr Mao told his supporters as he drove out of Kamuli.

Busoga north police spokesperson, Mr Michael Kasadha said Mao did not want to follow the Electoral Commission guidelines, had not sought police permission nor booked a venue for his rally.

“Mao was forcing himself to have a campaign rally in a place unacceptable by the guidelines and never agreed to go to the venue we had secured and gazetted for all presidential candidates at the Youth Center. Besides, he arrived 30 minutes to the close of campaign time so we had to handle him technically out of the district,” Mr Kasadha explained.

Ms Bridget Babirye, the NUP Kamuli Municipality MP candidate condemned the state brutality against opposition members and said it is uncalled for.

Mr Thomas Kisibo, a youth leader said security brutality frustrates democracy and undermines the integrity of the NRM Party president.

“It is annoying and defeats the intention of elections under multiparty because not all of us who come to a candidate’s rally will definitely support or vote him. We just want to listen to their message and make the right choices,” he said

 Hajat Madina Kasubo, a vendor at the Taxi Park said campaign rallies are an inconvenience and often attract criminals who take advantage. 

“He (Mao) is a presidential material who is mature and seems to understand the local people’s issues. He conducted himself well before police. I will definitely give him my vote although I am an NRM leader,” she said.