The Inspector General of Police (IGP) ,Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), and Commissioner General of Prisons (CGP), in a joint press briefing on Saturday at Police Headquarters Naguru, unanimously condemned violence that has been experienced in the recent past especially in the by- elections recently held.
The most recent spate of violence erupted in Arua on 13th .08.2018, the day final campaigns were held.
This kind of election violence was also experience in Bugiri and Rukungiri by-elections.
CDF Gen.David Muhoozi and IGP J.M.Okoth-Ochola confirmed that these incidents of violence are being thoroughly investigated and appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the law.
Equally,they jointly reminded citizens of their duties enshrined in our constitution in article 17.
They called upon the youth to avoid acts of violence because these are criminal and have grave consequences but also learning to resolve conflicts peacefully is something that all leaders need to teach our young people and have it entrenched in their hearts.
In this press briefing today, AIGP Dr Moses Byaruhanga the (Director Uganda Police Health Services and Brig Dr. Ambrose Musinguzi (Chief of UPDF Medical Services) confirmed having had medical examinations for victims of these violent confrontations. They confirmed that Hon Francis Zaake and Hon Bobi Wine were both in stable conditions with no fractures and no internal injuries but tissue related injuries.
Dr Johnson Byahashaija, Commissioner General Uganda Prisons Services informed the press that he has in custody Hon Bobi Wine, who has all rights to access the services of his private doctors upon request as directed by Court. He has however not got any request as of today 25th .08.2018.
The three Service Chiefs reminded members of the public of the need to respect the law especially the law on public processions and demonstrations as guided by the Public Order Management Act.(POMA)
Riots are not part of peaceful protests or demonstrations. They are criminal acts that are punishable under the law. Riots are criminal from the beginning as they are not provided for within the law, not regulated , have no clear command structure , and always disruptive and chaotic. Often times, these riots bring about violent confrontations which cause deaths and destruction.
Lastly, a reminder was made to those who use social media platforms to avoid engaging in offensive communication which violates the Computer Misuse Act and they indeed create fear in the hearts and minds of the people.
They all promised to effectively serve and secure mother Uganda.
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