Army stops FDC rally |
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By Justin Moro and Chris Ochowun WHAT was supposed to be a rousing welcome party turned into a massive show of force as dozens of UPDF troops and Police blocked a Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) rally at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu on Friday.
The army, backed by anti-riot Police, deployed Mambas and Buffalo fighting vehicles and prevented FDC MPs from addressing their supporters.
The MPs, led by Reagan Okumu (Aswa) and Michael Nyeko Ocula (Kilak), had earlier received a rousing welcome from supporters at Layibi Corner in Gulu Municipality. Okumu and Ocula were lifted shoulder-high to celebrate their recent release from Luzira Prison where they were remanded on murder charges.
They were accompanied by the FDC National Executive Co-ordinator, Sam Njuba (right), FDC vice-chairperson for the northern region, Prof. Morris Ogenga Latigo (Agago MP) and MPs Martin Wandera (Workers), Christopher Kibazanga (Kasese) and FDC National Youth Co-or
dinator,
Odonga Otto (Aruu). The MPs had earlier addressed rallies at Coo-Pee and Unyama IDP camps in Bungatira and Paicho sub-counties respectively.
Okumu and Ocula missed a traditional cleansing ceremony organised by traditional chiefs because they were delayed at the camps.
By the time they arrived at Kaunda Grounds for their final rally, dozens of soldiers had deployed there and a heated exchange ensued between the MPs and the Police.
Odonga Otto said, I know human rights and laws more than you. Ask the President to tell you about when I led a student strike at Makerere University. There will be tragedy and bloodshed here if you continue to push these crowds.
Kony is in the bush and there is no one following him yet the UPDF commanders are loitering in Kampala and Kaunda Ground waiting to block rallies.
The MPs said they would take the matter to Parliament and push for the punishment of some of the police officers.
Ocula said they
had
asked the Gulu mayor, Alex Ojera, to allow them hold thanksgiving prayers at Kaunda because the churches were too small. The mayor said, I see no reason why these MPs cannot hold prayers here. Ends
Published on: Sunday, 12th June, 2005 |
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