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Plain textKampala On Fire As Besigye, Lukwago Storm Nakasero Market
Kampala Police have Monday used teargas to disperse a crowd that had gathered near opposition leader Col. Kizza Besigye and Kampala Mayor Erias Lukwago.
The two politicians had gone to Nakasero Market for lunch, as part of a wide campaign to bring to light the economic hardships faced by the Ugandan common man.
As crowds gathered, police feared the possibility of violence thus ordering the opposition supporters to disperse.
They refused.
Kampala DPC James Ruhweza then directed Besigye to disembark his car. He also defied the order.
At this time, crowds were surging towards Ruhweza.
The Kampala Police Commander then directed Anti-Riot police personnel to roll teargas canisters.
Stones were subsequently pelted at police in response. The battle lasted a few minutes.
Besigye with Lukwago addressing Nakasero traders today
Business was temporarily brought to a standstill and traffic to a halt as Besigye’s supporters engaged police in running battles.
Besigye later addressed press at City Hall. He said government had marginalized the poor people but mortgaging the country to a few individuals.
He decried the rate at which the poor were being evicted from Kampala to give room to investors, saying such moves leave the masses helpless.
“We are determined to liberate this country from Museveni’s dictatorship. You can not just evict vendors and small businesses from the city. Where should these people go?” wondered Besigye.
Lukwago & Besigye enjoying lunch today at Nakasero market before the teargas
Flanked by Kawempe Mayor Hajji Munyagwa, Besigye and Lukwago insisted they will continue having meals at Nakasero Market whether police likes it or not.
Police have repeatedly banned any political activities in Kampala, saying they disrupt business and cause destruction of property.
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Updated on 2013-05-09 09:25 |
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