Independent presidential candidate, Rtd Lt Gen Henry Tumukunde has said that Ugandans should find all means to avoid violence ahead of 2021general elections.
Tumukunde’s remarks come shortly after the arrest of the National Unity Platform presidential candidate, Robert Kyagulanyi also known as Bobi Wine which has since caused unrest in the country.
His detention also sparked violence across different parts of the country prompting people to demand for his immediate release.
Bobi Wine was arrested for allegedly holding a procession contrary to COVID-19 guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and the Electoral Commission.
“It has become increasingly difficult and necessary to speak truth to power. We must find a way to avoid the violent scenes seen across the country,” said Tumukunde in a statement issued on Thursday evening.
Tumukunde also joined other presidential candidates to suspend their campaign programmes with immediate effect until Kyagulanyi is released unconditionally.
He noted that he will only resume campaigns when security forces of Uganda cease hostilities against candidates and innocent citizens whose only desire is peaceful political change through elections.
“We are in consultation with fellow leaders of all change forces to determine the best course of action and restore sanity to our country,” he said.
As provided for in the Constitution, Tumukunde said all candidates have the right to be seen, heard and express their vision for the country in a free and fair election.