Kamuli age limit demonstrations stopped

AGE LIMIT | KAMULI

KAMULI- Business in Kamuli Municipality on Tuesday morning came to a standstill as Police battled anti-age limit protestors loyal to the Democratic Party (DP).

The DP supporters were set to march through Kamuli town in a peaceful demonstration to show their lack of support for the impending motion to amend the age limit clause in the Constitution.

It took over four hours for police to contain the situation that had turned chaotic as protesters, mostly youth, chanted K'ogikwatako (If you dare touch it).

Led by the DP National Youth chairman Moses Bigirwa, the protesters had hardly matched 50 metres from the taxi park before they were incepted by Kamuli District Police, headed by the DPC Collins Kyasimire at the Roundabout.

In attempting to justify his cause, Bigirwa noted that it is upon Ugandans to defend the Constitution. He called upon MPs from Kamuli and Buyende to represent the views of the people.

"Defending Article 102 (b) is protecting the Constitution. We shall defend the Constitution before it becomes too weak to protect us," Bigirwa yelled as he attempted to battle his way through a chain of police officers.

Bigirwa accused the Police of biased arrests and use of excessive force when dealing with members of the Opposition. He said the issue at hand is a national issue, therefore, the will of the people is paramount.

Michael Kasadha, the Busoga North Police spokesperson, said the protesters had not sought permission from the Police to hold the demonstration, therefore, they were out of order.

"It could be seen as excessive force, but it was commensurate with what they were trying to do. If permission is sought, it is granted, but police will always provide protection," he said.