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Vianah Kemigisha doing Campaigns in Bushenyi
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By Our Reporter
Bushenyi
The Greater Bushenyi Regional Police Commander, Godfrey Achiria, has urged all political candidates to respect the campaign venues designated by district security committees. While addressing the media at his office on Monday morning, Achiria clarified that political actors do not need to seek police permission to hold rallies since the Electoral Commission (EC) has already cleared campaigns. However, he emphasized that candidates must strictly operate within the assigned venues.
“When the Electoral Commission cleared candidates to start campaigns, they were not given specific venues. It is the role of the district security committees to identify suitable places. We don’t want campaigns near hospitals or markets because such activities disrupt business and public order,” Achiria explained.
The Regional Police Commander also warned candidates and their supporters against concealing vehicle number plates, noting that such acts violate traffic regulations.
“We witnessed this during the NRM party primaries, where some parliamentary candidates hid their number plates and used their vehicles to cause chaos and violence. We shall not tolerate that in this election,” he cautioned.
Achiria further noted that some supporters use vehicles to incite violence and urged citizens to avoid engaging in unlawful acts, especially under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
He also called on journalists covering the campaigns to ensure they are easily identifiable.
“Some journalists are stubborn. Even when asked to identify themselves, they refuse. Please wear press jackets or identification that clearly shows your media house,” he said.
Meanwhile, Carol Namara, the Bushenyi District Woman Member of Parliament aspirant, appealed to district security committees to convene a joint meeting with all candidates to agree on accessible and fair campaign venues. She observed that some Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) allegedly favor NRM candidates by giving them more convenient venues.
In response, Achiria reaffirmed that police are committed to upholding human rights throughout the election period.
“We don’t want to violate anyone’s rights. We shall ensure all our personnel respect the rights of candidates and voters alike,” he assured.
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