The Archbishop for Kampala Dioceses Dr. Cyprian Kizito Lwanga has said government should to respect, promote and protect people’s rights.
The Statement comes after last week’s brutal arrest and torture of politicians in Arua hours after holding their rallies ahead of the concluded Arua Municipality by-election and Monday’s chaotic incident where UPDF officers assaulted Journalists and citizens who were in line with execution of their duties.
In a special prayer held at Rubaga Cathedral, organised by Uganda Performers Association aimed at praying for political detainees, the service was led Fr. John Mary Sebunya who echoed the voice of Inter-religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) appealing and condemning violence and hooliganisms associated in the electoral process in Uganda.
Alluding to a biblical story of good a shepherd, he asked leaders to act in line with the constitution saying a shepherd doesn’t mistreat nor kill his animals.
In her message, Barbra Kyagulanyi lauded silver Kyagulanyi and Uganda performers association and individuals who have always stood with them, resisting fear and intimidations since the nabbing of her husband and among other politicians in Arua.
She asked the congregation to light up their candles as they pray for her husband, MPs and politicians who are currently held in various detention facilities. “My husband is in a place where he is not supposed to be, despite all the charges that were leveled against hi, Kyagulanyi is supposed to be in hospital receiving medical treatment,” she added.
Katikiro Charles Peter Mayiga’s message that was delivered by lawyer David Mpanga, the premier called for solution of differences without causing chaos. He eulogized all families that lost their loved ones saying chaos in Arua was uncalled for.
“We should work in accordance with the constitution, why do you arrest, beat and torture suspects, let the law prevail. Suspects have rights to medication, and trail in competent Courts of law,” he said.
Kyagulanyi is facing charges of illegal possession of fire arms and rounds of ammunitions. He was arrested along with Mityana Municipality MP Francis Zaake, Ntungamo Municipality MP Gerald Karuhanga, Jinja East MP Paul Mwiru, and former MP Michael Mabikke, MP elect for Arua Municipality Kassiano Wadri, all except Zaake are grappling with treason charges and malicious damage of property, journalists and others.