Besigye speaks out on Rukungiri fracas; It was uncalled for

Former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party president, Dr Kizza Besigye has blamed the Uganda Police for escalating the situation in Rukungiri.

One person was confirmed dead after police fired live bullets and teargas on Wednesday afternoon to disperse crowds who had gathered around Dr Besigye in Rukungiri town.

FDC had organized a rally to consult locals on the proposed age limit amendment and Dr  Besigye, was among those supposed to attend the rally in Rukungiri stadium. However, police blocked Besigye’s vehicle from accessing Rukungiri town, prompting him to proceed on foot together with his supporters, the event starting a scuffle.

Besigye now says police is to blame for whatever has happened today.

“This was a completely unnecessary violence on behalf of the police, it was completely uncalled for,” he told Nile Post

“Peace has to be contained, killing people for instance the one they (police) killed in the stadium was in cold blood, they had already arrested him, why wouldn’t they take him to police station instead of killing him, or they would have left him to go since they were now retreating,” he added.

However, Kigezi Region RPC Denis Namuwoza, says the deceased was hit by a stone and not a bullet. Kigezi region police spokesperson Elly Matte, adds that the deceased has one opening, had it been a bullet it would be two openings.

Dr Besigye though insists that the police fired live bullets and killed two people, while several were injured.

“A number of other people were also injured by gun shots and are in various health units around. This is blatant violation of people’s rights; we shall respond to it formally,” he said

“I understand they have invited the Military to reinforce the police after retreating. People are still charged and resilient,” he added.

Mr Matte refutes claims that police has sought Military help, he says that the situation is under police control.