Police yesterday engaged in running battles with supporters of Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago who had accompanied him to the Electoral Commission offices for nominations.
Lukwago is seeking a third term in the Lord Mayors’ office.
Lukwago supporters turned rowdy after police blocked the road with metallic barricades to stop the huge numbers of people, he had come with from accessing the venue but the crowds became chaotic.
Police had no choice but to fire teargas to disperse the rowdy crowds.
However, Lukwago castigated police for highhandedness and selective application of the law.
“This is an exercise which is national in nature, this is an activity which is recognized under the law. Why teargas people? Why do you have to beat up people? that was uncalled for,” he said.
Lukwago said he is coming not to engage in any battle but to fight corruption in Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) if is given another chance come 2021.
According to Lukwago, Kampala is the battlefield captured by the mafia to grab people’s property which he won’t tolerate if elected.
“You see what is happening in Nakivubo Stadium, I shed tears to see our facilities being taken away by individuals, Park Yard was also taken. So, I remain the shield for the people of Kampala. I remain the shield for the people of Uganda to guard their property, jealously,”” said Lukwago.
“That’s why everyone knows it very well, even in the institution that Lukwago is such a strong pillar in this particular cause.”
Lukwago asked the Electoral Commission to come out clearly on scientific campaigns to avoid clashes between politicians and security agencies.
“Justice Byabakama, I seek to know now that I am a candidate, how do I reach out to the people to endorse my candidature. We need clear guidelines on how we are going to conduct our campaigns,” he said.