Bukomansimbi South MP Godfrey Kayemba Ssolo has alleged a violent encounter during the Kawempe North by-election, claiming he narrowly avoided a serious assault.
During a plenary session today, Kayemba, a member of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP), stated that a member of the security forces attempted to kick him in a sensitive area. “One of the JAAT commandos wanted to kick my balls,” Kayemba said, “but I was lucky he missed.”
The Kawempe North by-election is being held to replace the late Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya who passed on earlier this year after along time illness.
Adding to the accusations, Mukono North MP Abdullah Kiwanuka recounted his own experience, claiming he was kidnapped, slapped, and detained at Kawempe Police Station for wearing red attire, a color associated with the NUP.
“Mr. Speaker I’m so disappointed with the security forces. They are reminding how my opponent tortured me during the previous election in Mukono. What I went through over the weekend was uncalled for. When did overalls become army uniforms?” Kiwanuka said.
The NUP has repeatedly accused security forces of targeting their members and supporters. The claims made by Kayemba and Kiwanuka are likely to further inflame tensions as the by-election approaches. Police have not yet issued a statement regarding the allegations.
