As Uganda heads to elections, recently Gen. Kale Kayihura the police chief, said pro-government militias would be armed with guns to prepare for “war” bringing a sharp rebuke from U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for democracy and human right Tom Malinowski who tweeted Jan. 28 that Kayihura’s comment was “irresponsibe” and “dangerous.”
Separately, Justine Lumumba Kasule, the secretary general of Uganda’s National Resistance Movement (NRM) ruling party while addressing followers said youth who protest alleged election rigging in the streets would be shot and killed by the government.
The following statement warning that any actors responsible for violence that may occur in connection with Uganda’s General Election this Thursday be held accountable was issued by the U.S. State Department through Mark C. Toner, Deputy Department Spokesperson, Friday.
“As Uganda nears its national elections on February 18, the United States supports the call by many Ugandans, including thousands of youth, for a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process, before, during, and after the voting.
Violence or threats of violence from any group or individual are unacceptable, and those who participate in such acts – regardless of which candidate they support – must be held accountable. We call on all parties to refrain from provocative actions or rhetoric that raise tensions and that seek to divide Ugandans rather than bring them together.
We strongly urge the government and electoral authorities to ensure a level playing field and transparent process, including through fair application of the law, so that all candidates have an equal opportunity to express their views and voters have the opportunity to hear them. We look to the representatives of all parties and their supporters, as well as members of the security forces and the Crime Preventers, to support the peaceful and fair conduct of polls free from intimidation.
Uganda’s progress depends on adherence to democratic principles and processes. The United States stands by the Ugandan people as they undertake this most essential democratic endeavor.”
Gen. Kayihura shown with his boss Gen. Museveni who dons uniform when he wants to intimidate.
– See more at: http://www.burkinastyle.com/content/ugandadecides2016-us-says-those-who-cause-uganda-election-violence-be-held-accountable#sthash.VasygUJp.16t0cb8Z.dpuf
