Police to politicians' supporters: Keep off roads

The Police have warned supporters against blocking roads while waiting to cheer their candidates along major routes.

This followed supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) who blocked sections of the Kampala-Gulu Highway on Monday as their candidate and party flag bearer Robert Kyagulanyi traveled to Arua. 

At Wobulenzi in Luwero, Kakooge, Migyera, Kafu and other towns in Kiryandongo, the Police battled with supporters and on several occasions used tear gas to clear the road.

Supporters who were waving Kyagulanyi's posters would gather in the middle of the road. 

At some point, a tear gas canister accidentally dropped into a Police deployment truck, almost causing a stampede.

Bobi Wine's supporters in Luwero on Monday. Photos by Eddie Ssejjoba

In towns such as Bombo and Kigumba, youth on bodabodas accompanied his convoy and others brought trade to a standstill as they blocked the road. At Wobulenzi motorists diverted to alternative routes to avoid the jam.

Police spokesman Fred Enanga said the practice is risky because it puts the supporters in danger of contracting COVID-19. It also attracts violence and disrupts the activities of other candidates, Enanga said.