MPs have criticized security agencies for their interference and excessive force used in the campaigns of the Kawempe North by-election raising concerns about electoral violence and the state’s approach to democracy.
The condemnation of the actions of the security forces followed a statement by the Minister of State for Internal Affairs, David Muhoozi to Parliament following the brutality unleashed on people in the ongoing campaigns.
Muhoozi said that those detained would be presented in court, and any reported excesses would be thoroughly investigated and addressed.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring a clean and safe election in support of the Electoral Commission (EC) but warned that Ugandans should mind what they do.
“We were all treated to that video of people in military formations, and I knew it would attract consequences, both intended and unintended. Moving forward, we must engage with security and all relevant players to ensure credible electoral processes,” he said.
Legislators, however, expressed concern over the state of affairs in the elections.
Kalungu West MP, Joseph Ssewungu, criticised the handling of opposition politicians by the security forces.
“We are having soldiers beating civilians with no sufficient cause. If I am wearing an overall which is red in colour, but it’s having national colours, what offence have I committed?” he said.
Theodore Ssekikubo from Lwemiyaga County, questioned the deployment of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JATT) in the electoral process.
Amuria Woman MP, Susan Amero called for compensation for the injured journalist, Miracle Ibrahim of Top TV.
“I heard the minister talk about payment of treatment bills, but I didn’t hear him talk about compensating the person who was harmed, because this is a breadwinner in his home,” she stated.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa called for a thorough investigation into the conduct of the security forces.
“I would have loved, for example, in the case of the journalist, who was not part of people who made the parade and all that, to see a commitment from you investigating your officers, coming out clearly,” Tayebwa said.
Muhoozi acknowledged the need to investigate potential excesses by security forces.
“It’s true, in all this, there are always innocent bystanders. If I can, I wouldn’t want to infer the guilt of the others, but certainly, we shall verify, even reaching out to the journalist, and find out how he was injured, who was responsible, and then we take appropriate action,” he said.
