The highly anticipated resumption of the English Premier League (EPL) season has brought excitement to football fans across the world, but also a surge in domestic violence cases in Jinja City.
According to the Kiira Regional Police spokesperson, SP James Mubi, reports of domestic violence have increased significantly in the last few days, with a peculiar excuse from men.
“…imagine women complaining that in a week their husbands always spend only two nights at home pretending to be watching football games, which ends up triggering quarrels and conflicts…”,he said.
Mubi reveals that 90% of complaints filed by women and girlfriends in relationships alleged that their partners were spending nights outside their matrimonial homes, citing the need to watch intense matches, particularly the four-hour Arsenal vs Manchester United clash.
The areas affected are Mpumudde, Mafubira,Namulesa,Nakabango, Bugembe, Wairaka, Wanyange, and Kakira Town Council.
The women are now wondering why EPL fixtures are scheduled at night rather than during the day.
“…this trend is alarming, and we urge men to prioritize their relationships and find alternative ways to enjoy the games without neglecting their responsibilities”, Mubi counselled.
The police mouthpiece has also encouraged women to stay informed about football schedules and updates by listening to local radio stations or the internet for those with smartphones.
As part of damage control, SP James Mubi has recorded an audio now playing on various radio stations and social media platforms to urge men to be considerate and live responsibly for family stability.
“…these men fool you because you do not have any information, but remember, knowledge or information is power, so stay alert and hold your spouses accountable…”he urged.
The women have welcomed the counsel, saying it will help them to protect themselves from deceitful partners who can easily infect them with dreadful HIV/AIDS.
One young newly wedded woman who talked to this reporter on condition of anonymity has promised to create a WhatsApp Group with the Hashtag “StayInformedStaysafe”where members will share all the football updates detailing the fixtures.
“…this will also help us raise awareness among ourselves including our spouses who are going to be added on this platform which will also serve as a forum for sharing information and marketing…”,the mother of two revealed.
The police have launched a campaign through their routine community policing led by Kenneth Ahimbisbwe, the Regional Community Liaison Officer(CLO), to sensitize men about the dangers and consequences of domestic violence.
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