By James Bakama
and Charles Ariko


AFRICA NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP
Sunday: Burundi v Uganda

IT pays to be a star. If Hamza Muwonge was an ordinary mortal, chances are that he would have stayed a little longer at Katwe Police station.

Muwonge, arrested on Monday for assault and causing malicious damage, was released 11 hours later after a public outcry following immense media coverage.

The Cranes goalkeeper’s troubles followed a disagreement with his Bunamwaya neighbour Assistant Inspector General of Police Richard Bisherurwa.

Muwonge was at his arrest re-directing a water channel from Bisherurwa’s residence that always flooded the footballer’s residence whenever it rained.

Several journalists at the police station made the officers realize that the man who was in their cells was no ordinary person.

His release at 2pm followed a three hour discussion that according to a release from Muwonge’s club Bunamwaya FC ended in an agreement.

“Bisherurwa agreed to construct another channel which will prevent water from going into Hamzah's house and also to always consult with the LC 1 officials whenever such incidents occur. Muwonge was also cautioned to always respect the law.”

He was released in the presence of police spokesperson Judith Nabakooba, Kampala regional police commander Moses Kafeero, Fufa’s Muhammed Bazirengedde and Asuman Lubowa.

A smiling Muwonge said he was fit for the Burundi match.

“I am prepared for the game. I believe I can make it because I am still fit,” Muwonge said.

On his experience in police cells Muwonge said he had received a star’s reception. “When you are known things are made easy. Everyone in the cell respected me. I was even given a mattress!”

Lubowa said Muwonge was expected back in the Cranes camp. The team leaves Friday.