Members of Parliament have strongly condemned the violence and intimidation reported during the campaign for the Kawempe North by-election. During a parliamentary session today, legislators expressed outrage over the actions of security personnel and other individuals who have been accused of harassing voters and disrupting the electoral process.
The debate was sparked by a report from State Minister for Internal Affairs, General David Muhoozi, who addressed the allegations of misconduct by security forces. Minister Muhoozi assured Parliament that investigations are underway to address the reported incidents, including the alleged arrest of journalists covering the campaigns.
Several MPs, including Maurice Kibalya (Bugabula County), Rose Obiga (Terego District), and Juliet Bashisha (Mitooma District), criticized the actions of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JATT) and other security agencies, accusing them of overstepping their mandate and undermining democracy.
Sarah Opendi, the MP for Tororo District, emphasized the importance of adhering to the rule of law during elections. She warned that any deviation from democratic principles could lead to a breakdown of the electoral process.
Deputy Minister for Trade, David Bahati, announced that the government would compensate journalist Ibra Miracle, who was injured during the violence. Bahati urged MPs to remain calm and allow the investigative process to take its course.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa called for restraint among MPs and urged security agencies to respect the law. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in handling election-related matters.
Joyce Baagala, the MP for Mityana District, condemned the harassment of journalists and called for an end to the intimidation of media personnel. She stressed the importance of a free press in ensuring fair and transparent elections.
Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba, the MP for Nyendo-Mukungwe, expressed concern over the actions of security personnel dressed in plain clothes, who have been accused of intimidating voters. He called for an immediate end to such practices to ensure a free and fair by-election.
The by-election in Kawempe North, scheduled for January 13, is being held to fill the seat left vacant by the late MP Muhammad Segirinya. As the campaign period continues, stakeholders are calling for peace and adherence to democratic principles to ensure a credible electoral process.
