Uganda: Seven killed during protests over Bobi Wine’s arrest

Seven people are now reported by the police to have been killed during Wednesday’s protests against the arrest of Ugandan presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi.

The lawmaker popularly known as Bobi Wine was arrested on Wednesday in Luuka distrct, east of the country, while on the campaign trail.

Protests erupted over his arrest sparking chaos and reports of the police shooting to disperse protesters.

Some 45 people have also sustained injuries according to the police.

“As of yesterday evening, we had seven people who lost their lives out of the violent raucous. About 45 people got injuries, including an LDU whose head was smashed,” police spokesperson, Fred Enanga said.

According to the Police in Uganda, Bobi Wine violated Covid-19 safety measures on public gatherings.

The police said he didn’t comply with the guidelines given by the electoral commission, local media reported.

His Twitter account handled by his aides said on Thursday that “More than 24 hours after his brutal arrest & detention in Nalufenya, Bobi Wine has been denied access to his lawyers & his medical team! Only army & police officers have access to him.

The violation of his rights with impunity must be condemned by all persons of good conscience.”

The United States has condemned the ongoing violence following arrest of Bobi Wine.

It said in a statement that it “deplores the violence that has claimed multiple lives today, and we extend our sympathy to the victims’ families and loved ones.

We urge all parties to renounce violence, undertake good-faith measures to reduce tensions, and respect fundamental freedoms.”

Meanwhile, opposition presidential candidates have suspended their campaigns, calling for fellow contestants to be released.

Ugandans will vote in a general election on January 14, 201 to elect a president and members of parliament.

The United States deplores the violence that has claimed multiple lives today, and we extend our sympathy to the victims’ families and loved ones. We urge all parties to renounce violence, undertake good-faith measures to reduce tensions, and respect fundamental freedoms. pic.twitter.com/FewY3RgMNw

— U.S. Mission Uganda (@usmissionuganda) November 18, 2020

We havebdecided to pause our presidential campaign activities until our colleagues, @HEBobiwine and @PatrickAmuriat are released and their freedom to campaign guaranteed.
We call upon government to recognise that this isn't business as usual.#ChangeIsComing#CountryBeforeSelf pic.twitter.com/1VFQlSw5ks

— Mugisha Muntu (@mugishamuntu) November 18, 2020