JEEMA slams Police for 'unprofessional conduct' in handling Bobi incident
In a statement, JEEMA spokesperson Dr Swaib Kaggwa Nsereko expressed outrage over the police's response, particularly their claim that officers merely observed Kyagulanyi "stumbling down" before abandoning the scene, leaving bystanders to manage the situation.
The Justice Forum (JEEMA) has condemned the Uganda Police Force for its handling of an incident involving Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, the leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP).
The political party criticised the police for what it described as "unprofessional conduct" during and after the event.
In a statement, JEEMA spokesperson Dr Swaib Kaggwa Nsereko expressed outrage over the police's response, particularly their claim that officers merely observed Kyagulanyi "stumbling down" before abandoning the scene, leaving bystanders to manage the situation.
The firing of rubber bullets to disperse the crowd further compounded JEEMA’s concerns.
"Abandoning Mr Kyagulanyi in such a vulnerable state and resorting to force against civilians raises serious questions about the police's commitment to protecting Ugandans," Dr. Nsereko said. "This conduct is unacceptable and cannot be ignored."
As the country gears up for the upcoming electoral season, Dr. Nsereko urged the police to focus on maintaining peace, stability, and respect for human rights.
He warned that actions like these could lead to violent extremism, reminiscent of the deadly events of November 2020.
"We cannot afford a repeat of November 2020, where lives were lost, and citizens went missing. The police must prioritize human rights over aggression," Dr Nsereko emphasised.
He called for a thorough investigation into the incident and demanded that those responsible within Uganda Police Force held accountable for their actions.
"We insist on accountability and justice. The safety and rights of all Ugandans must be upheld," he stated.
On Tuesday, Kyagulanyi was allegedly struck by a suspected tear gas canister in Bulindo, a township on the outskirts of Najjera and Kira suburbs.
The exact circumstances of the incident remain unclear, but sources indicate that Kyagulanyi was with a group of supporters who confronted the police.
He was taken to Rubaga Hospital for medical attention.
Amateur footage captured by bystanders and shared on TikTok shows the NUP leader agonizing on the ground as his aides attempt to help him up.
He appears to be unable to walk and has to be carried by others. Another video shows police engaging a group of unarmed civilians, some in suits, in running battles and firing tear gas randomly.
The incident comes in the wake of a heightened security alert issued by the US government, warning of potential terrorist attacks in Kampala.
However, the police have refuted allegations that Kyagulanyi was shot, stating instead that the NUP principal sustained injuries while getting into his car.
"Police officers on site claim he stumbled while getting into his vehicle, causing the injury, whereas Kyagulanyi and his team assert that he was shot," said police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke in a statement released on Tuesday evening.
