The President of Uganda, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni addressed the nation on 29th November, 2020 in a broadcast that was televised across various networks. The long anticipated address took place in Mbale where the President is currently carrying out his national campaigns.
The national address covered a number of issues however in light of recent events that transpired only last week, the leader highlighted major concerns that came as a result of the riotous nature of political affairs within the nation, leaving a number of people injured and over 50 dead.
“The attack on people wearing NRM/Yellow shirts, the attack on officers in uniform should never happen again. Whoever has ears should listen. You are not doing anyone a favour to keep the law.” He warned, further chastising opposition members who he described as untouchables.
The president also called security operatives who seemed to be lenient when handling rioters in addition to breaking protocol and firing into citizens as opposed to the air where the bullets would be rendered useless. He called for investigations into these matters and for justice to be served.
Nonetheless, Ugandans were still called upon to avoid riots and causing chaos as this would be a ‘grave’ mistake on their part. “In spite of the weakness of the police that allows impunity of lawlessness to persist, the overall security posture of Uganda is robust and that is where people (like these rioters) make miscalculations; you will be defeated.”
Promises to compensate the families of those lost during the riots were made although many Ugandans believe this to be just another ruse to cover up the injustices suffered by the people at the hands of their government. The National Unity Platform flag bearer, Robert Kyagulanyi has dismissed such claims and called for the respect of human lives and the freedom of free and fair elections.
