By Peter Luzinda
The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Simon Byabakama has condemned the Saturday attack on National Unity Platform (NUP) Presidential Candidate Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine together with this supporters by security personnel in Gulu.
In a statement released on Monday, Justice Byabakama called on the police force to investigate what led to both uniformed and plain clothed security personnel armed with guns and sticks to beat up Bobi wine, his supporters and the Electoral Commission security team as they made their way to his rally venue.
“As we await investigations into the incident to establish the root causes, the Commission wishes to state that this was unfortunate and uncalled for, especially coming just days after the meeting of all agents of Presidential candidates and the Uganda Police Force, to iron out any issues, with all those in attendance committing to peaceful conduct in accordance with the law” he Said.
Justice Byabakama noted that violence is inconsistent with the Commission’s calls on all stakeholders to act peacefully and in accordance with electoral laws to enable Ugandans have free, fair and credible elections.
“A duly nominated Presidential candidate is free to traverse any part of Uganda to campaign, provided he or she is acting in line with the law and guidelines issued by the Electoral Commission” he said.
He added, “If there is any disagreement on any matter on the campaign trail, the Commission appeals for dialogue, not violence and confrontation”.
Justice Byabakama urged Police to investigate the circumstances that led to Saturday’s confrontation and ensure that those responsible are subjected to the full force of the law.
“The Commission further calls on law enforcement agencies to exercise restraint and use proportionate, lawful and humane means while enforcing compliance with electoral laws and guidelines” he said.
During the Saturday attack, a number of National Unity Platform supporters were left injured after Bobi Wine was intercepted at the Bank of Uganda branch junction in Gulu City by gun and stick-wielding UPDF and police officers.
During the confrontation, Daniel Oyirwoth aka Sir Dan Magic, was left bleeding from the head after being hit by the security operatives.