Ugandan presidential candidate Kizza Besigye during a press conference at his home in Kasangati, Uganda, February 16, 2016. Photo/SUDHIR BYARUHANGA
Kizza Besigye has said he is not responsible for the death of one person in Wandegeya, Uganda, after a scuffle between his supporters and police.
Besigye, who heads the Forum for Democratic Change, is one of two main rivals of President Yoweri Museveni, in Uganda’s Thursday election.
“I do not feel responsible for the violence that happened between my supporters and the police. The young man who was shot and killed will be mourned and declared a hero,” he said.
Besigye told a press conference in Kasangati on Tuesday that he will “continue with the struggle” if he loses as “no single poll is credible if done in an environment with intimidation”.
Police are critical to the peaceful transition of the country that is “bigger than the commander in chief”, he said.
He asked the East African Community and the continent to ensure the elections are free, fair and credible, and supporters do not wait until the afternoon to vote.
Besigye was arrested along one of the main highways on Monday when he was scheduled to address a rally at Nakivubo stadium but was allegedly denied access. He decided to campaign within the city centre.
Witnesses said police fired tear gas to disperse hundreds of supporters, who were escorting him.
Museveni said in a statement that Besigye, who was later released, was arrested for defying police orders.
The veteran leader, who is seeking re-election after serving for 30 years, warned the people against being drawn into violence during ongoing campaigns.
