Violence is not the best means of solving problems

Sep 30, 2009

FROM late last year, there seems to be an increasing incidence of violent riots, demonstrations and protests. The riots that took place a few weeks ago are the most recent example attesting to the-resort-to violence culture to solve problems.

Crispy Kaheru

FROM late last year, there seems to be an increasing incidence of violent riots, demonstrations and protests. The riots that took place a few weeks ago are the most recent example attesting to the-resort-to violence culture to solve problems.

The spirit of resolving differences by violent mechanisms at the national level seems to permeate down to smaller communities and institutions like schools. Most of the riots and violent protests that have taken place in the last eight months have mainly been in schools.

All these are a sign that people have resorted to solving issues through violent means rather than peaceful ones. Ugandans need to appreciate and harness the peaceful ways of dealing with problems no matter how big they are. Violent mechanisms of resolving problems have, in many instances, resulted into significant destruction of property, loss of lives and disruption of normal business. Between 2005 and 2007, Uganda is estimated to have lost over sh1b from riots and violent demonstrations.

Even though protests are supposed to be a last resort in dealing with problems, in Uganda, they have become the first alternative. When the Government launched a crackdown on taxi drivers who were operating without driving permits, taxi drivers went on strike. This turned nasty when taxi drivers and conductors started pelting stones at their colleagues who were transporting passengers. Was such a good cause by the Government worth that fierce strike?

As we approach the 2011 elections, there is a very high likelihood that such politically motivated incidents may increase. However, Ugandans can opt to exploit respectful and peaceful alternatives of resolving conflicts rather than riot.

As a recourse to the increasing riots in Uganda, both the citizens and law enforcers have serious obligations. Citizens should ensure they are always law abiding and the law enforcers need to implement the law while respecting the rights and freedoms of the citizenry.

There should, therefore, be mutual respect between the law enforcers and the ordinary citizens in dealing with dissenting issues. Uganda needs to be a violent-free environment if we are to progress socially and economically.
The writer is a student at the International University Centre for Peace Missions, Spain

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