Masaka. Police in Masaka District last Friday blocked area MP Mathias Mpuuga and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago from driving through town in a procession, claiming they would incite violence. The politicians were in Masaka Municipality to launch a football tournament. According to an official in Mr Mpuuga’s camp, the duo had planned to enter the district in a long motorcade waving at supporters but police deployed heavily at all road junctions leading to town to stop them. According to the source, the motorcade was expected to pass via Masaka Municipality Mosque where Mr Lukwago would attend Juma prayers and be given an opportunity to address the congregation. However, the politicians were only allowed to drive quietly to the mosque where the district Kadhi, Sheikh Swahib Ndugga, said he would not let the Lord Mayor address the worshippers as directed by police. When Mr Lukwago was introduced, he only waved at the congregation. Later, at Kijjabwemi Secondary School ground where he launched the tournament, Mr Lukwago said he was surprised by police action. “We thought that police were busy celebrating their centenary and would leave me free to visit my home area and be with my people today but I was wrong. They seem determined to trail people like me wherever we go and to ensure we don’t enjoy any freedom. But we shall not give up with the struggle to liberate Ugandans because our message is simple, clear, and genuine,” Mr Lukwago said. Mr Mpuuga said police acted in panic and had interfered with their planned activities. “As the area MP, I have the right to engage with my electorate in any lawful manner,” Mr Mpuuga said. The district police commander, Mr John Chrysostom Mwaule, said police had to ensure that the Opposition leaders did not engage in activities “that would interrupt peace in the town”. “We don’t have any problem with them launching the football tournament, but our concern is the manner they intend to conduct themselves,” Mr Mwaule said.
Posted on: Mon, 06 Oct 2014 02:50:39 +0000
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